Louisville families and visitors can start the holiday season together on Saturday, Dec. 5, when Light Up Louisville returns to downtown. The celebration runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Jefferson Square Park and is free to the public.
Event details
The plaza will be transformed into a winter market where local vendors offer holiday gifts, crafts and seasonal treats. Attendees can enjoy a video‑mapping holiday show on Metro Hall, live entertainment on two stages, and the Lots of Lights Parade that begins at 6 p.m.
Families will find plenty of photo‑opportunities, including free pictures with Santa and his friends inside Santa’s House. Kids can ride the Jolly Jingle Express, a trackless train that circles the park, and everyone can sample food from Frosty’s Food Court.
Tree lighting
This year’s centerpiece is a 40‑foot Norway spruce donated by the Yurt family of the Forest Hills neighborhood. The tree will be installed on Wednesday, Nov. 18, and is expected to be lit around 8 p.m. during the evening’s finale show.
Additional information
While the main event schedule is set, other activity times have not yet been announced. Louisville Metro Police Department has not released any road‑closure plans for the day, but visitors should allow extra travel time and consider using public transportation or rideshare services.
WLKY, a proud sponsor of Light Up Louisville, will have its own reporter, Rick Van Hoose, on hand to help Santa light the tree and to share highlights of the evening.
Plan your visit
Parking is available in nearby municipal lots, and the event is fully accessible for guests with mobility needs. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring reusable water bottles, as the winter market will be outdoors.
Light Up Louisville offers a safe, family‑friendly environment for the community to gather, shop locally and celebrate the season together. Mark your calendars and join the festivities to experience the spirit of Louisville’s holiday tradition.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.