“Spectacular Sights on Holiday Nights”
Imagine your favorite holiday scenes, movies, local places and even holiday songs captured in holiday lights. That is exactly what the Kentucky Horse Park has been proud to do for the last nine years. This year the Southeast Tourism Society has deemed it a “Top Twenty Event,” and a must see for all ages.
| Southern Lights are located north of Berea on I-75, off of exit 120. From Berea you can travel to the Park in a little over an hour. Upon entering the park, a large arch reads “Southern Lights” spelled out in white lights. Visitors then travel up the path to the ticket gate and are invited to tune their radio to the designated station in order to hear more about the park and listen to Christmas songs. There the road takes a turn to the right and the excitement begins. |  |
This year they have added new lights in addition to old favorites. Visitors can see the excitement of Keenland and watch the horse’s race to the finish line. Children can point out the Disney exhibits, including Hercules and Peter Pan. Dinosaurs, butterflies and of course horses are seen moving around in the park. Adults can even spot a scene from Star wars along the way. The displays have a surprise around every turn and are a wonderful experience for individuals of any age.
Although most come solely to see the lights, you might find that half of the fun is stretching your legs at the Visitor center near the end of the tour. This year, through December 23, they have an exotic petting zoo in a tent outside of the visitor center. While, inside the visitor center there are large Christmas trees, arts and crafts, refreshments, a gift shop and children can get their pictures made with Santa Clause. Visitors can also tour the Horse Park Museum free of charge, as well as see model train displays provided by Bluegrass Railway Club. There is something that will intrigue every member of the family.
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After leaving the Visitor center the path of lights leads visitors out of the park. The last light exhibit is a brightly lit Santa with nine reindeer leave visitors with the message “And To All A Goodnight…..” The light displays are open for public viewing from 5:30 to 10 pm, starting the Friday before Thanksgiving and ending December 31st. The drive around the horse park takes approximately 45 minutes and covers over 5 miles. Admission prices ranges from $12 for a personal vehicle to $100 for a motor coach. Proceeds from Southern Lights help the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation in their efforts to support programs such as “Riding for the Handicapped,” “Mustang Troop,” and many more. Also, portions of the proceeds go to the Lexington Herald-Leader’s scholarship fund for non-traditional students attending LCC. |
Southern Lights are located off exit 120 of I-75, visitor should turn to the right on Iron Works Pike E. and travel until the signs appear that direct visitors into the campground entrance. Visitors will know when they are approaching the entrance due to the brightly lit hills on their left.
For more information contact Southern Lights at (859) 255-5727 or visit their web site at
written by Hannah Billings
