Mayor starts the countdown to Lexington’s New Year’s Eve celebration

10 ... 9 … 8 … Mayor Linda Gorton announced plans for the city's upcoming downtown New Year's Eve celebration today.

"We are just 40 days away from New Year's Eve. This year, we will ring in the new year, Lexington style," Mayor Linda Gorton said. "There's no better way to kick off our 250th birthday than with a party in the heart of downtown."

New Year's Eve at Central Bank Center, presented by Maker's Mark, will kick off Lexington's year-long 250th anniversary celebration with a celebration for people of all ages.

The evening will feature first-of-its-kind New Year's Eve activities catered to kids. Activities include inflatables, basketball on the historic UK Men's Basketball Court, programming from the Lexington Children's Museum, and a performance from M'Power Rhythm, Lexington's youth-centered African drumming ensemble. The event will start at 5 p.m. and continue to 8 p.m. in the main exhibition halls on the second floor of Central Bank Center.

Beginning at 9 p.m., the party begins on the Vine Street concourse outside Central Bank Center. Live music by "Tee Dee Young" and "Honeychild" will be at the center of the celebration. Onsite food trucks, outdoor bars, and a special countdown to midnight will make for a festive experience for all.

Central Bank Center is a key partner for the city's downtown New Year's Eve Celebration.

Brian Sipe, General Manager of Central Bank Center said, "We are honored that the 250Lex Commission wants to kick off the celebration at the home of so many other noteworthy community events throughout the year. This is our city's home venue - and we're happy to host an event that 250Lex has planned of what will be a historic and fun event for all ages."

Allen McDaniel, Executive Director of the Downtown Lexington Partnership said, "Downtown Lexington and the Downtown Lexington Management District are excited to welcome locals and visitors alike to enjoy our diverse, exciting range of dining and entertainment options on New Year's Eve. With an evening of great music from the 250Lex Commission, all who join us downtown will be able to celebrate throughout the evening. Downtown is guaranteed be the center of the excitement for an unforgettable evening."

More details for New Year's Eve and other 250Lex activities will soon be available on 250lex.com or by following the 250Lex commission on social media. You can also learn more by following @250LexKY on Facebook and X. Follow @250LexingtonKY on Instagram.