Bardstown Road Aglow: Here is your complete guide to the 2025 holiday shopping event
The Highlands neighborhood kicks off the holiday shopping season with a special celebration in honor of the 40th Bardstown Road Aglow on Saturday, Dec. 6.
The beloved annual event features holiday shopping, free trolley rides, live music, festive holiday drinks and an official tree lighting ceremony. The seasonal celebration is traditionally the largest night of commerce of the year for Highlands-area merchants and visitors will find discounts and specials at local bars, restaurants, and shops.
Held on the first Saturday in December since 1985, The Highland Commerce Guild invites the community to celebrate the event's 40th anniversary with extended shopping hours from noon until 10 p.m.
When is the 2025 Bardstown Road Aglow?
The day long event will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 from noon to 10 p.m.
Where is Bardstown Road Aglow?
The annual holiday festivity is held along Bardstown Road, Baxter and Barret avenues, and Douglass Loop in the Highlands neighborhood.
When and where does the Christmas tree lighting ceremony take place?
The annual Wendy’s Holiday Tree Lighting will take place at 6 p.m. and will feature Santa Claus and festive music from Voices of Kentuckiana. The holiday tree is located outside Wendy's restaurant, 1108 Bardstown Road, at the corner of Grinstead Drive. Free hot chocolate will be provided by Wendy's staring at 5:30 p.m.
Does it cost to ride the trolley?
Bardstown Road Aglow
Thanks to Trolley de 'Ville and the Highland Commerce Guild, visitors ride free during Bardstown Road Aglow. The trolley runs between Douglass Loop and Bardstown Road to Baxter Avenue.
What activities are planned for the 40th Bardstown Road Aglow?
The annual event offers discounts at many shops and restaurants plus live music from various local musicians and groups.
In addition, Maker's Mark will be featured in holiday cocktails at participating restaurants for Aglow with a portion of the proceeds going to Gilda's Club Kentuckiana.
Look for free hot chocolate and selfies with Santa at the PNC parking lot, 1301 Bardstown Road, from 6:30-8 p.m.
There will also be a Bardstown Road Aglow Photo Contest, which will award cash prizes for first, second and third place. Post your best photos from the event to Instagram with the hashtag #Aglow502.
Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Bardstown Road Aglow: Here is your complete guide to the 2025 holiday shopping event
