Somerset-Pulaski County is transforming into a holiday wonderland this season, ready to welcome locals and visitors with a host of Christmas events and activities. From festive markets to tree lighting ceremonies, there’s a holiday celebration for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to making the most of the season in our vibrant community.
1. Jingle Stroll – A Ladies Night Out
Kick off the season with a festive ladies’ night in downtown Somerset. This unique shopping experience is filled with exclusive deals, holiday treats, and seasonal surprises at participating local businesses. This will be held Thursday, December 5th from 6:00PM-9:00PM. Park and walk to your local shops including: The Gracious Table, The Mole Hole/The Tipsy Toad, Birdies and Barrels, Charred Oak Whiskey Grill, Maker’s Mill, Be You Boutique, Serendipity, Bazaar Universe, Books Nooks and Crannies, The Bar Upstairs and more. Info https://www.facebook.com/events/581035981034220/.
2. Christmas Island Holiday Lights Tour
Drive through a dazzling display of lights at Christmas Island! Perfect for families, this tour lets you enjoy the sparkle and joy of Christmas from the comfort of your car, making for a magical winter evening. Info and prices call 606-561-4113 or visit https://www.visitburnside.com.
3. Big South Fork Polar Express
All aboard! Climb aboard as we depart our Stearns Depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus. Upon departure, you’ll be immersed in the story as you are served hot chocolates and a sweet treat while the conductor recites a reading from the Polar Express book. After arriving at the North Pole, you will be joined by Santa. On the return trip to Stearns, Santa will visit each coach and hand out the first gift of Christmas to each passenger. Info 606-376-5330 or info and tickets https://stearnsthepolarexpressride.com/.
4. Heffelfinger Tree Farm
Visit Heffelfinger Tree Farm to pick out the perfect Christmas tree and enjoy family activities on the farm. A beautiful selection of evergreens and holiday décor awaits!
5. Sheltowee Art Fair Holiday Farm
Local artisans display their best creations, making this the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind presents. More than 70 of the finest Southern and Eastern Kentucky artists will join to display and sell their wares at the 30th Annual Sheltowee Art Fair. Everything from baskets, pottery, quilts, ceramics, soaps, nature and wildlife photography to contemporary furniture, jewelry, musical instruments and much more will be featured in the exhibit. Free Admission. The exhibit is presented by the Sheltowee Artisans. Info: 606-219-0759, 606-677-6000, https://www.facebook.com/sheltoweeartisans/ or https://www.sheltoweeart.com/.
6. Kentucky Mercantile Christmas Market
The Kentucky Mercantile Christmas takes place at The Fifth Quarter, 517 E. Racetrack Rd., Somerset, KY, 5pm-8pm Fri and 10am-3pm Sat. A special Friday & Saturday to buy the most unique CHRISTMAS gifts! Specialty vendors, artisans, craftsmen, cultivating food and memorable experiences from all over Kentucky under one roof! Christmas Music-Amazing Eats & Unique Shopping. Info 606-521-0118 or https://www.facebook.com/events/s/2024-kentucky-mercantile-chris/467853349163223/.
7. Tiki’s Winter Wonderland
Tiki’s Winter Wonderland is a festive spectacle with decorations, lights, and holiday-themed activities. Stop by for a taste of the season with a tropical twist! They will be offering three ice skating sessions! Each skate session is 1.5 hours long and costs $15 per session. A concession stand full of tasty food along with fire pits are available to help keep you warm. Info 606-679-7946 or for pricing & the full winter schedule visit https://somersplash.com/winter/.
8. Christmas Vendor Events at The White Lily Event Barn
Shop for unique, handcrafted goods from local artisans at The White Lily Event Barn. It’s the ideal place to find gifts while supporting small businesses in the community. Also, the local Christmas Tree farm is just down the road so you can just make a day of it. Info 606-425-8007 or https://www.facebook.com/events/1051428726404485.
9. Somerset’s Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join the community as we light up the town for the season! This annual ceremony includes caroling, festive activities, and the magical moment when Somerset’s Christmas tree sparkles to life.
10. The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley
Experience the magic of Jane Austen’s world with a holiday twist. In this sparkling sequel to Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley (produced at Flashback in 2018), Gunderson and Melcon explore the grounds of Jane Austen’s Pemberley Estate from a new level: the downstairs servant’s quarters. To prepare for another busy holiday season, longtime housekeeper Mrs. Reynolds hires a new charge, a witty young maid named Cassie. Working together on holiday preparations, sparks begin to fly between Cassie and the estate’s inventive young footman Brian, but all comes to a screeching halt when a midnight arrival from a forbidden guest threatens to tear the family apart. This charming holiday tale captures the heart of Austen’s beloved heroines with a delightfully fresh perspective that all audiences can enjoy. Info 888-394-3282 or https://www.flashbacktheater.co/2024-25-announcement/.
11. Burnside Annual Christmas Parade
This beloved community parade brings out festive floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa Claus. It’s a holiday tradition that captures the heart and spirit of Burnside. Lineup at 6pm, parade at 7pm. Let the Holidays shine on Main St. as Santa rolls through town. “Winter Wonderland” is the parade theme for 2024. The parade features floats, mini monster trucks, first responder vehicles, classic cars, cartoon/video characters and, best of all, Santa. Info 606-271-6939 or www.visitburnside.com.
12. Christmas Farmfest at Bear Wallow Farm
Santa is coming to Bear Wallow so come say hello, snap a picture and let him know your Christmas list. Take a stroll through the exciting Trail of Lights featuring thousands of lights to make the night merry and bright. The fun doesn’t stop with Santa or the lights. Experience and explore over 20 more attractions including slides, pedal carts, lighted hayride, fire pits, hot chocolate and more. Info 606-875-5160 or visit. https://www.bearwallowfarms.com/country-christmas.
13. Lake Cumberland Holiday Market
For a mix of holiday shopping and local goods, the Lake Cumberland Holiday Market offers plenty of festive cheer with a variety of vendors and holiday-themed merchandise. Info 606-425-5319 or https://www.facebook.com/events/386164014450151/
14. Nutcracker
This classic ballet is a holiday must-see. Bring the family to experience the grace and beauty of The Nutcracker, a timeless tale that enchants audiences every year. Pep & Pizzazz is again thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker to our community this holiday season! This isn’t just another performance; it’s a milestone in our PepFam story, where every student shines as a star in this beloved holiday tradition! Join Clara and the Nutcracker as they battle the Mouse King, travel through the Land of Snow, and are welcomed to the Land of Sweets by the Sugar Plum Fairy. It is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit and will be your ticket to lasting holiday memories! Info and costs 859-667-2596 or https://www.facebook.com/pepandpizzazz/ for tickets https://31777.recitalticketing.com/r/4923/42098/.
15. Somerset 106 Christmas Vendor Village
Explore Somerset 106’s Christmas Vendor Village, where you’ll find local vendors, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats. It’s an ideal place to shop locally and support our community. Vendor Village will run from 1:30pm-5pm featuring Santa’s House with free pictures, local vendors and food trucks, Snow Blowing Station, kid’s activities & more. Info 606-875-6732 or www.somerset106.com/christmas-vendor-village-2023/
16. Somerset Christmas Parade
Join the city of Somerset for its annual Christmas parade! This festive event features colorful floats, marching bands, and Santa himself, spreading cheer through the streets. The Parade will begin at 5:00pm. This year’s theme is “Christmas Movies on Parade” believe in the magic of the season. Special Grand Marshals, Hal & Cynthia Rogers. Info 606-679-7323 www.somersetpulaskichamber.com.
17. 4th Annual Jingle Ball
Come out and Christmas shop, bring the kids to meet Santa and get their pictures taken, enter giveaways and raffles, eat some great food, meet new people and take advantage of some early Christmas shopping. You will also be supporting our local small businesses. Free admission. Info 606-677-6000 or www.centertech.com.
18. Christmas Tea Party
For a more refined holiday experience, join the Christmas Tea Party at Expressions Tea Party. Enjoy tea, treats, and a bit of holiday elegance in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Bacon Wrapped Dates, Sauteed Mixed Carrot Medley with Balsamic Glaze, Holiday Steak Bruschetta, Peppermint Bark Fudge, Assorted Homemade Christmas Cookies, Christmas Cranberry Spritzer, Christmas in a Cup Tea will be served.
With so many events happening throughout Somerset-Pulaski County, there’s something for everyone this holiday season. Embrace the magic, spread the joy, and make lasting memories with friends and family at these exciting celebrations.
Happy Holidays! 🎄
