Coming up in May from 250Lex…
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
It’s May… and Lexington’s 250th anniversary celebration is springing ahead with a focus on different cultures. “This month we are celebrating the uniqueness that enriches our community,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Lexington is a city where everyone is welcomed and embraced. Join us this month to learn more about the different cultures that call Lexington home.”
250Lex Diversity Month Ambassador Christian Motley said, “This May, as we honor Lexington’s 250th anniversary, we celebrate the rich story of this place – the people, cultures, and diverse experiences that have shaped what makes our city great.”
200TH Anniversary of the visit of Marquis de Lafayette
2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de LaFayette’s historic tour of the United States. LaFayette, then the last surviving major general of the Revolutionary War, received a hero’s greeting at many stops, including his visit to Lexington. Join organizers at Gratz Park for the setting of a historic marker honoring the legacy of Lafayette, the namesake of Fayette County. The ceremony will take place at 3 p.m., Friday, May 16, 200 years to the day after the General’s visit to Transylvania University, which was then located in Gratz Park. Free and open to the public.
2025 Grassroots Black Leadership Awards
The Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative will be celebrating the 2025 Grassroots Black Leadership Awards Winners, as part of Lexington’s 250th anniversary. The Grassroots Black Leadership Awards honor Black community leaders who are creating lasting, positive change across Lexington.
2025 honorees include Tanya S. Clark and Dora M. Hudson, Co-Founders of the West End Community Empowerment Project of Lexington; Christine Elizabeth Smith, Executive Director of Seedleaf Inc.; and Rebecca Webb, Co-Founder & Executive Director, Community Inspired Lexington.
The event will take place 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 13 at DV8 Kitchen’s East End location. Free and open to the public.
Queer, Here, & Everwhere
“Queer, Here, & Everywhere: The Roots of Kentucky’s LGBTQ History” is the first comprehensive exhibition of Lexington’s LGBTQ history, showcasing the importance of the queer community to the city. Highlighting key moments and figures in Lexington’s LGBTQ history, from Sweet Evening Breeze’s drag performances in the 1920s, to the passage of the Fairness Ordinance in 1999, this exhibit will celebrate the resilience and contributions of the queer community.
By shedding light on these often overlooked narratives, organizers hope to foster a greater sense of belonging for LGBTQ individuals in Lexington, while also promoting understanding and appreciation among the broader population. The exhibit will be on display beginning May 24 – June 26, at the Lexington Public Library, Central Branch.
“Queer, Here, & Everywhere” is presented by the Faulkner Morgan archive, and is a recipient of a 250Lex Community Cultural Grant. Free and open to the public.
Diverscity Festival
DiverCity Festival brings together a vibrant fusion of cultures, entertainment, and community spirit for a day of unity, learning, and celebration! This year’s festival will feature vendors and performances that showcase the multitude of cultures that make up Lexington.
With over 40 live performances, more than 50 cultural and business booths, and an array of authentic food from around the world, DiverCity Festival is a one-of-a-kind experience designed to embrace, celebrate, and educate. DiverCity Festival will take place noon – 7 p.m., Saturday, May 24 at the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza, 120 N. Limestone. Free and open to the public.
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In June, 250Lex will celebrate “Come Home Month,” 30 days of special events celebrating the best of Lexington.
For a full list of programming, visit www.250Lex.com.
Stay up to date with all things 250Lex by following @250LexKY on Facebook and X. Follow @250Lexington on Instagram.
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
https://www.lexingtonky.gov/news/coming-may-250lex
