Lexington Shines Bright at the Annual Christmas Carolighting
Lexington was truly the place to be last Friday night, December 6, as the streets thrummed with holiday cheer and excitement. The Icehouse Amphitheater was aglow with lights, laughter, and the infectious spirit of the season during the town’s annual Christmas Carolighting. With the temperatures dipping into the 30s, thousands of locals flocked to the amphitheater, creating an incredible buzz in the air.
Families Celebrate with Festive Activities
This festive gathering brought together families eager to snap photos with Santa Claus and browse through a delightful array of shopping options offered by dozens of vendors. Patrons enjoyed steaming cups of hot chocolate while indulging in slices of pizza from food trucks lining the area. The highlight of the evening came when the town’s towering Christmas tree was illuminated, casting a warm glow over the amphitheater. To cap off the night, attendees were treated to a showing of the beloved holiday classic, “The Muppet Christmas Carol.”
The Migration Begins
As the event wound down, the migration began! Residents exited the amphitheater in clusters, journeying up the hill to Main Street in search of cozy restaurants to continue the festivities. Some patrons slipped into Barrio Tacos for delicious nachos and tequila, while others made a beeline for TakoSushi, the new Asian-Latin restaurant that has become a local favorite since its opening in September.
The energy was palpable at Irish pub O’Hara’s Public House, where a lively crowd packed the bar, and the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Meanwhile, craft beer lovers flocked to Keg Cowboy, a hot-spot known for its hanging Christmas lights and vibrant atmosphere. The night was packed with revelers who blended together for a delightful experience that underlined the unique charm now flourishing in downtown Lexington.
A Growing Scene in Downtown Lexington
Gone are the days when Lexington residents craved a bite of Thai food or a refreshing craft beer and had to hop in a car to head to Columbia. The scene downtown has evolved, much to the delight of many like Brian Nelson, owner of Keg Cowboy. Having run his establishment for about a decade, Nelson has seen this anticipated growth unfold. “In all honesty, this is what I’ve been hoping for for a decade,” he said, with a mix of pride and excitement. “I felt like this would come.”
The Importance of Events at the Amphitheater
Regular attendees like Julie Noufal, who was at the carolighting event with her daughter Amira, exemplify the community spirit. Having lived in Lexington for over ten years, Julie has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the downtown area. “We come up here quite often,” she shared, bundled warmly against the chill. “When something is going on here, it has Main Street really popping with all the restaurants and stuff, too.”
Support for Local Vendors
Vendors also benefited from the increased activity downtown, such as Samad Green, who represented his wife’s bakery, Christine’s Petite Sweets. Green was thrilled to see the hustle and bustle on December 6. “I’ve seen enough change that I know that the draw is coming back to the historic downtown,” he said, adding that he enjoys supporting new local businesses instead of driving all the way to Columbia.
A Promising Future for Lexington
Lexington Mayor Hazel Livingston, present at the carolighting, emphasized the growth downtown, noting that the Icehouse Amphitheater has contributed significantly to this rise in activity. “The growth is about more than numbers,” she stated. “It’s about creating a thriving downtown, one where people can explore diverse dining options, shop unique retailers, and enjoy world-class entertainment.” With plans for new establishments, including Voodoo Brewing Company and a modern steakhouse by restaurateur Steve Cook, the excitement continues to build.
Continuing the Celebration
As the good times rolled on at places like O’Hara’s with its signature disco night and packed tables, many agreed that events at the Icehouse play a crucial role in enriching the downtown experience. “We do love that the town of Lexington has invested in bringing people into town,” said owner Matt O’Hara.
Final Thoughts
As a proud native of White Knoll, Gavin Smith, a member of the Town Council, remarked on the transformation of Main Street. “Now you come down Main Street and we have thousands of people here,” he said, pleased to see the vibrant atmosphere. The community’s joy was evident, affirming that Lexington is not just blossoming—it’s creating spaces where individuals can come together, enjoy each other’s company, and embrace the warmth of the holidays.
All in all, as Lexington celebrates this season of light, it’s clear that the downtown area is shining brighter than ever. We’ll be eagerly watching how this festive gathering evolves in the future!
