Holiday Happenings You Don’t Want to Miss
As the air turns crisp, the leaves fall off, and the grass is frost-kissed, the Lake Cumberland region transforms into a cozy Christmas wonderland. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway, a family tradition, or a festive weekend with friends, here are some of the best activities and events across Somerset, Pulaski County, and the Lake Cumberland area.
🎄 1. Downtown Somerset Christmas Parade
One of the most joyful traditions in the region, the Somerset-Pulaski County Community Christmas Parade fills downtown with twinkling lights, music, festive floats, and Santa sightings. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and enjoy the magic around Fountain Square. It’s the perfect kickoff to the holiday season. Parade lineup and more info can be found here.
And for even more hometown holiday spirit, make plans to attend Burnside’s Annual Christmas Parade, a small-town celebration that brings the community together with floats, lights, and plenty of cheer.
🎁 2. A new holiday favorite, Tiki’s Winter Wonderland transforms Somersplash Waterpark into a magical winter escape. Guests can enjoy:
- Outdoor ice skating on a seasonal rink
- Holiday lights and décor
- Festive treats and warm drinks
- Family-friendly activities and photo ops
It’s the perfect spot for families, date nights, or groups looking to add some playful winter fun to their holiday itinerary.
✨ 3. Christmas Lights & Holiday Drive-Throughs
When the sun sets, the Lake Cumberland region comes alive with glowing displays. A few favorites include:
- General Burnside Island State Park (“Christmas Island”) — a drive-through experience full of lights and seasonal charm. Don’t forget to stop and see Santa at Vendor Village.
- Legacy Lakes Festival of Lakes— Santa Claus, Christmas Lights, Mrs. Claus Bakery, Petting Zoo, and so much more!
Gather your family, turn on your favorite holiday playlist, and enjoy a magical nighttime drive.
🌲 4. Pick Out the Perfect Christmas Tree
Make a memory this year by visiting a local Christmas tree farm. Places like Heffelfinger Tree Farm offer beautiful evergreens, wreaths, décor, and a wholesome farm-day experience. Take your time wandering the rows of trees, snap some pictures, and turn it into a new tradition for the whole family.
📅 Your Holiday Trip Planner
Here’s an easy itinerary to make the most of your visit:
- Evening 1: Drive through Christmas Island or Legacy Lakes’s light trail.
- Day 2: Shop events like Kentucky Mercantile Christmas Market, Holiday Market Art Fair, or Sugar-Plum Market. To see what shopping events there are visit our Events Page.
- Afternoon: Visit Heffelfinger tree farm and pick out your perfect tree or wreath.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner downtown and stroll the streets of Somerset.
- Weekend stay: Book a lakeside cabin or cozy lodge for the full holiday experience.
Other Christmas themed events are The Nutcracker Presented by Pep & Pizzazz, Merry and Bright: A Night with the Arts, Country Christmas with Alex Miller, Jingle Bell Run, Craft Bourbon Series: Ugly Sweaters & Bourbon Letter with Wilderness Trail and Expressions Christmas Tea Party.
🎁 Tips for a Great Weekend
- Dress warmly, December nights around the lake get chilly.
- Arrive early for parades and markets for easier parking.
- Support local businesses and artisans while shopping.
- Bring your camera, festive photo spots are everywhere.
- Turn your visit into a weekend trip to fully unwind and explore.
