An enormous Christmas tree stands in front of the entrance of 4th Street Live! Many come to take pictures of the holiday-adorned downtown square.

By Aimee Jewell–

Light Up Louisville occurs annually in the Kentuckiana area the day after Thanksgiving, but this year is different. Going on its 32nd anniversary, Light Up Louisville and “40 Nights of Lights,” the new element to the Christmas celebration covering three blocks between the Galt House and Fourth Street Live!, have undergone some minor and major changes. An ice skating rink has been placed smack dab in the middle of Fourth Street Live!. This synthetic, outdoor skating arena will be open to the public throughout the holiday season, from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28. The fee for skate rentals is $2 for everyone, with $5 general admission for adults, per hour and $3 for teenagers and children under 18.

Another one of the major changes going on at Light Up Louisville is the Christmas tree placement. Located in Jefferson Square in previous years, the tree has been moved to Liberty and 4th Street, on the north side of Fourth Street Live!.

The “40 Nights of Lights” celebration will include holiday music and lights along the three blocks of 4th Street between the Galt House and Fourth Street Live!. The changes have been made to encourage making memories at Light Up Louisville and recreate the Christmas spirit around Louisville.

The initial kick-off of Light Up Louisville was on Friday, Nov. 23, and included a Run, Run Rudolph 5K Run/Walk, benefitting the Louisville Metro Parks Foundation. Other activities include a Winter Wonderland Holiday Parade, support campaigns for those serving in the military overseas and an appearance by Santa Claus.

Special Light Up Louisville discounted rates are being offered on the Spirit of Louisville cruises, at the Galt House and Hyatt Regency Hotels, the Louisville Visitors Center, the Muhammad Ali Museum and the Frazier History Museum. Currently on display at the Frazier Museum is the “Holidays Around the World” exhibit.

Louisville Gas and Electric Company, LG&E, and GE Appliances and Lighting are presenting the event.

[email protected]
Photo: Lara Kinne/The Louisville Cardinal