The Lodge at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park. You should see inside!

Valentine’s Day in Kentucky is always especially sweet. Now our Kentucky State Parks are sweetening the deal even more.

You’ve read enough of my raves about Kentucky State Resort Parks ( from their restaurants to their cottages and lodges) to know I how I feel about them.  We can all be very proud of our beautiful state parks and should visit them as often as possible.

Even if you just go for a meal, you’ll walk away happy. And full!  The Kentucky Hot Browns, the catfish, the hush puppies, onion rings, beans, and rolls.  The chicken, buffet bar, iced tea, and desserts.  And the coffee! I’m as big a Starbucks fan as anyone, but the coffee served at Kentucky State Resort Parks is even better than Starbucks coffee.

Now I have your attention, right?!

Kentucky’s State Resort Parks are offering special events and packages during the month of February to help celebrate Valentine’s Day. How love-ly!

State parks provide a great place for a getaway weekend along with excellent food, entertainment, natural beauty and scenery. Listed below are the parks with Valentine’s packages and programs, and the park phone number. For more information about each park, as well as other state park events, visit www.parks.ky.gov

Here is a listing of special events:

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Honeymooners’ Weekend Feb. 10-12

Honeymooners’ weekend is a tradition at Barren River, so bring your sweetheart for a weekend of fun and romance. Friday night, become part of an interactive murder mystery and help solve the “crime.” Whoever solves it wins a free night’s lodging at Barren River Lake State Resort Park. It will be “An Evening To Die For!” On Saturday, hold your special someone close and dance to the music provided by DJ Cindy Cossey. Or, participate in couples activities including the “Not So Newlywed Game.” Enjoy all this for a two-night lodging package at $279.95 plus tax per couple (includes lodge room, dinners, breakfasts, mystery theater tickets and dance tickets for two). Ask about our one-night lodge room, two-night cottage, and dinner and show packages. For more information, contact Jamie Avery at 1-800-325-0057 or jamie.avery@ky.gov

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet

Valentine Dinner Theater Feb. 11

This year’s performance at Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park will be a return of Fantastical Theatricals for a cabaret performance featuring a selection of love songs to warm the heart. The dinner theater will be one night only, Feb. 11, with seating starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $34.95 plus tax per person for dinner and entertainment. Packages are available for $129 plus tax that include an overnight stay in the lodge room of your choice, two dinner theater tickets and breakfast for two the following morning. Call 800-443-7008 for reservations.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Sweetheart’s Weekend Feb. 10-12

Enjoy the tranquil setting and mountain vista with a special discounted room rate of $50 per couple on each night. There will be a special buffet Feb. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering entrees of rib-eye steaks, fried catfish, fried chicken, herb roasted pork lion, mixed medley vegetables, green beans, corn, baked potatoes, garden vegetables, and various desserts. Adults are $13.99 (plus beverage, tax and gratuity). Call 1-800-325-0058.

Carter Caves State Resort Park, Olive Hill

Valentines Dinner Theater Feb. 10-11

Spend a romantic evening in the natural beauty of the Eastern Kentucky foothills at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Romance that special someone in your life with dinner followed by special performance by the duet Heath Eric & Molly G. Heath and Molly present a high-energy, passionate show filled with authentic originals and unique twists on cover songs. For more info on the performers, check out their website at www.heatheric.com Show times are Friday and Saturday evening at 6:45 p.m. Admission fee of $29.95 plus tax per person includes dinner and show. The park is also offering a package that includes the dinner, show and an overnight stay in Lewis Caveland Lodge for just $120.95 plus tax for two people. Call 1-800-325-0059.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Valentine Getaway Weekend Feb. 10-12

Cumberland Falls has been considered one of Kentucky’s most romantic attractions for decades. Your weekend begins with a dance and DJ on Friday evening, with music provided by Radioactive Sounds. Saturday evening features a mystery dinner theater where you will help figure out “who done it?” The weekend package is $299 plus tax per couple, which includes two night’s lodging, Friday evening dance and dinner and show on Saturday. Single person price is $239. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, Burkesville

Valentine’s Celebration Feb. 10-12

Dale Hollow will host several events during the weekend of Feb. 10-12 in honor of Valentine’s Day. The Friday night package for two will include one night’s lodging, dinner and breakfast, and a Chautauqua program at 7:30 p.m. featuring Kelly O’Connell Brengelman as Lucy Audubon. The Friday package is $124.95 per couple. On Saturday, the package includes one night’s lodging, dinner and breakfast and a dance featuring Klassyc Times. The package is $169.95 per couple. The dinner and dance only is $74.95 per couple and the dance only is $20 per person. Call 1-800-325-2282.

General Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton

Perfect Harmony Dinner Theater Feb. 11

General Butler State Resort Park presents “Blues Brothers Tribute Act: The Soul Men.” From their knuckle tattoos to their signature hats and sunglasses, the Soul Men impersonate Jake and Elwood to perfection. The Soul Men’s performance is a fast-paced, high energy, audience participating routine that includes all of your favorite Blue Brothers’ songs and gets the audience moving and dancing. The Butler Lodge package for $165.95 plus tax per couple includes one night’s lodging on Feb. 11, Saturday dinner theater and a Sunday breakfast buffet. Individual tickets for the dinner show are $35 plus tax and are on sale through noon Feb. 11. Call 1-866-462-8853.

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Greenup

Valentine Getaway Package Feb. 11-12

Treat that special someone to a Valentine Getaway Package as Greenbo Lake State Resort Park and the Paramount Arts Center present an evening of dinner theater with a comedy production of “The Kentucky Marriage Proposal.” One night’s lodging, dinner and show for two is $130 plus tax; dinner and show only is $28 per person plus tax, tip and drink or $56 for two plus tax, tip and drink. The Sweetheart Buffet is $17.95 per person plus tax, tip and drink. A ticket for the show only is $10. Call 1-800-325-0083.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

Valentine’s Day Getaway Feb. 14

Enjoy an evening of romantic music while enjoying your candlelight dinner at the Music Highway Grill with Jody Conley. As a professional musician for over 20 years, he played with local groups, Full House Band, Breakaway, was a founding member of the Kentucky Opry, and was a member of Exile. Serving time is 4-8 p.m. Cost is $25 per couple, plus tax and drink. Lodging package available for $100 plus tax per couple, which includes a lodge room, dinner and entertainment. Call 1-800-325-0142.

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville

Couples Month in February

For $125, receive a one-night stay in Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park’s comfortable lodge, with dinner and breakfast. Upon arrival, you will be greeted in your room with a special gift, which includes a bottle of sparkling cider. Dinner at Harbor Lights Restaurant includes a choice of special entree and desert from our Couples’ Menu. The next morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast for two again at Harbor Lights with a later check-out time. This package is based on availability thru Feb. 29. Call 1-800-325-0146.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Cadiz

Sweetheart Weekend Feb. 10-11

Come celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lake Barkley State Resort Park with your sweetheart. On Friday night and Saturday afternoon, enjoy planned recreation activities, and on Saturday night enjoy dinner and the annual Sweetheart Dance with live music, sweet treats and cash bar. Two-night packages are $215 per couple and include Friday and Saturday night lodging in a lake view room, activities, Saturday dinner buffet, Sweetheart Dance and Sunday breakfast. One-night packages are $165 per couple and include lodge room Saturday night, activities, dinner, dance and breakfast. Call 1-800-325-1708 for reservations or additional information.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown

Sweetie Pie Valentine Dinner Feb. 14

Show your love for your sweetheart with a special romantic dinner at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Sit by a window of the park’s beautiful dining room overlooking Lake Cumberland while enjoying your choice of several special entrees such as beef filet mignon, grilled chicken with cherries jubilee sauce, port-roasted pork tenderloin with apple chutney, or coconut-dusted jumbo shrimp. You’re bound to impress the one you love! Reservations are suggested but not required. Call 1-800-325-1709.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade

Valentine’s Square Dance Feb. 11

Bring your sweetheart out to Natural Bridge for some easy-to-learn Appalachian square dancing, clogging, line dancing, two-stepping, polkas, waltzes, and many other couples and individual dances. The warm-up begins at 6:30 p.m., and the official start time is 7:30 p.m. The dance will be held in the Woodland Center and typically lasts until 10 p.m. Admission is $3 per adult, and children under 12 are free. Contact Brian Gasdorf at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov or (606) 663-2214 for more information.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Sweetheart Month during February

February is sweetheart month! Come stay at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park – lodge rooms are $44.95 per night during February. On Friday and Saturday night, stay in a lodge room and add a dinner for $80 a couple. If a cottage is more your style, get a one bedroom cottage for $74.95, or a two bedroom cottage for $84.95. The price for a one bedroom cottage and dinner for two is $105. Call 1-800-325-1711.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

Sweethearts Dinner and Dance Feb. 11

Enjoy a dinner and dance at Pine Mountain State Resort Park whether you’re in a new romance, newlyweds or longtime sweethearts. Celebrate your relationship at this event featuring a night of dancing, with a live music duo and a special sweetheart’s dinner. The park’s $110 (plus tax) package for two includes sweetheart’s dinner, dance admission, and one night’s accommodations. Dinner and dance only tickets are available for $70 plus tax. For information, call 1-800-325-1712.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

That’s Amore Dinner Feb. 14

A romantic, Italian-themed dinner to celebrate your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day will be featured on Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 5-9 p.m at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. The special evening of fine dining featuring authentic Italian cuisine will include lasagna, spaghetti, and a saute station where the park’s chef will prepare shrimp, chicken, and vegetables to your personal preference. Rounding out the evening’s special menu will be a variety of pastas and sauces, Italian-style vegetables, rolls, garlic bread, various pasta salads on the bar, and an assortment of all-time favorite desserts. The cost is $30 plus tax per couple. For more information, call 606-337-3066 or 800-325-1712.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Sweetheart Weekend Feb. 17-19

Bring your special someone to Rough River Dam State Resort Park for a romantic weekend getaway! Festivities begin on Friday evening with professional ballroom dance lessons, and Saturday is filled with activities and games including the “Not-So-Newlywed Game.” A romantic prime rib dinner buffet and Sweetheart Dance highlight the night. Overnight package starts at $250 plus tax per couple and includes two nights’ accommodations, Saturday breakfast, activities, prime rib dinner buffet and dance and Sunday breakfast. Dinner and dance only packages are also available for $85 plus tax per couple and include prime rib dinner buffet and dance on Saturday. Call 1-800-325-1713.

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We’ve lived in several states (in addition to our home state of Kentucky) during the holidays, so I’m more than qualified to say, “There’s no place like Kentucky for the holidays!“  As a Kentucky girl, I think Thanksgiving SHOULD be surrounded by fallen leaves and crisp, cool weather – just as Christmas should bring with it the hopes of a White Christmas.  If you ask me, Kentucky is the best place in the world and it’s never more obvious than during the holiday season.

Our beautiful Kentucky State Parks are embracing the holiday season in Kentucky as much as I am. Read on for beautiful events planned around Kentucky this month.

The Kentucky State Parks will be ready for the winter holidays this year with special meals, decorations, candlelight tours, entertainment and other special events planned.

State parks are a great place for holiday gatherings in December. All 17 resort parks have restaurants, meeting areas and gift shops that offer unique gift ideas. That includes Kentucky Unbridled Spirit gift cards that are valid at Kentucky State Parks, the Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Historical Society and the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea.

Many state resort parks will also be holding New Year’s Eve parties and dinners on Dec. 31. For more information about these and other events, visit www.parks.ky.gov

Here is a listing of holiday events at Kentucky State Parks:

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Dec. 3 and 10

Santa’s House and Breakfast with the Grinch

Have you ever wondered what Santa’s house looked like? Here is your chance to take a tour of this magical villa decorated for the holiday season at Barren River Lake State Resort Park on Dec. 3 and 10, from 9:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. CST. During your tour, visit with Santa to give him your wish list. Don’t forget to bring your camera if you would like to have your picture made with him. Have green eggs and ham with the Grinch on Dec. 10 at 9 a.m. CST. Don’t worry, this Grinch won’t try to ruin your holiday, and he’s brought his favorite story for us to read to you, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” After breakfast, make a holiday craft to remember your visit. Registration fee is $5 per person. Contact Jamie Avery at jamie.avery@ky.gov or 1-800-325-0057 or 270-646-2151.

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet

Dec. 16-17

Golden Girls Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Laugh in the holidays with the players from Fantastical Theatricals as they perform a holiday whodunit. As Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia are planning a holiday party, Dorothy is making plans of her own to announce her engagement to smooth-talker Arthur Walters, but poor Arthur is murdered. All are invited to celebrate the holiday with us and solve the mystery with Lt. Caramba. Overnight packages are available for $129 per couple, which include two tickets for the show, one night’s lodge room and meals. The show is $34.95 per person for the show and dinner the night of the play. For more information call 800-443-7008.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Dec. 3

Holiday in the Park

Bring your children for holiday-themed crafts at 1 p.m. CST. Adults can make holiday-themed crafts at 3 p.m. Santa will arrive with reindeer at 4 p.m. From 5-8 p.m. in the lodge dining room, the park will have its annual holiday dinner buffet. Entrees include ham, catfish, fried chicken, and turkey and dressing with sides of buttered corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole and green beans. On the dessert bar, there will be banana pudding, fruit cobbler and cheesecake. All of this will be offered for $12.99 for adults, not including tax and gratuity. (Children 5 and under eat free.) Another opportunity to see Santa will occur during the buffet. Gather around our cozy fireplace in the lodge lobby as we share a reading of the famous “The Night Before Christmas” at 8 p.m. Call 1-800-325-0058 or 1-606-398-7510 for information.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Dec. 3, 10, 17

Holiday Hayride

Bring the family to enjoy a holiday hayride through the park to visit Santa Claus. The cost is $3 per person, and hayrides are available 6-9 p.m. EST. Come early and enjoy dinner at the Riverview Restaurant inside Dupont Lodge. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Fort Boonesborough State Resort Park, Richmond

Dec. 9-10

Christmas on the Frontier

The fort will be lit with candle lanterns and bonfires, and decorated with natural materials from the Cantuckee wilderness from 6-8 p.m. EST. Learn how some of our present-day customs originated and how some have been lost to our past. See how cultures blended on the frontier and different traditions were observed. Enjoy the music, sample the tastes of holiday fare and experience a frontier Christmas. Tickets for adults are $5; children ages 6-12 are $3; under 5 are free. Call 859-527-3131.

General Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton

Dec. 3

Festival of Trees & Winter Wonderfest Day

Christmas trees decorated by local schools, churches, organizations and businesses will adorn the Butler Lodge to help ring in the holiday season. Winter Wonderfest Day is full of surprises for the young and young at heart! Santa will be featured for breakfast on Saturday morning, along with morning activities in the Lodge lounge and an evening holiday concert. Call 1-866-462-8853.

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Greenup

Dec. 3-4

Holiday Open House

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park and the Greenup County Homemakers present “Country Christmas Memories.” This marks the 26th year that the Greenup County Homemakers have decorated The Jesse Stuart Lodge. There will be plenty of holiday decorations and treats to view and sample. Join the park for a festive time and joyous occasion for the entire family. Call the park at 606-473-7324 for more information.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

Dec. 17, 18

Breakfast with Santa and Frosty

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park invites you to come celebrate the Christmas season with a breakfast buffet to remember. While you enjoy your breakfast, you and your children can visit with Santa Claus and Frosty as they have made a special trip from the North Pole to visit everyone at Jenny Wiley. Have your picture made with both of our wintertime friends. Santa will have a special treat for each child. Adult buffet is $7.49 plus tax and children ages 6–12 are $5.49; children age 5 and under eat free. Contact Park Naturalist Trinity Shepherd at 1-800-325-0142 or email at tshepherd@suddenlinkmail.com for more information.

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

Dec. 10 10:30-noon

Santa’s at the Park

Come join the elves at the annual “Santa’s at the Park,” Saturday, Dec. 10, from 10:30-noon CST, for children ages 3-7 and their families. Share the holiday activities: art, storytelling and treats with Santa. Class fee will be $7. Photos with Santa will be optional for an extra fee. Pre-registration required. Staff Contact: Kim McGrew-Liggett, Audubon Museum, 270-827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Aurora

Dec. 11

Christmas in the Park

Stop by the park from 2-4 p.m. CST and let the children spend some time with Santa and make a great Christmas craft. Refreshments will be provided. Please bring a canned food item to donate. Help someone else along the way! Lunch will be available beginning at noon. For more information call 1-800-325-0143.

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville

Dec. 10

Breakfast with Santa and Frosty

Come visit Santa as he stops by for breakfast with all the boys and girls in the Harbor Lights Restaurant from 8-11 a.m. CST. Frosty will join us in all the fun! You can have your picture made with Santa and Frosty and let Santa know what you would like under the tree on Christmas morning. All children will receive a small gift from Santa and a Christmas sugar cookie to decorate. Adult breakfast is $6.99 and children ages 6-12 are $4.99. Under 6 are free. Call 1-800-325-0146.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown

Nov. 25-26; Dec. 2-3; Dec. 9-10

Christmas Candlelight Tours

Sample the elegant past during “My Old Kentucky Home” annual Christmas candlelight tours 5:30-8:30 p.m. EST. The glow of candlelight will adorn the mansion in splendid 1800’s fashion. Elaborate period holiday costumes, music and traditional refreshments nightly. The park’s gift shop offers unique Kentucky handmade crafts, foods and holiday gifts. Adults are $5.50, seniors are $5 and children ages 6-12 are $3.50. Children under 6 are free. Call 502-348-3502.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Dec. 3

Visit Santa and Enjoy a Buffet Dinner

The park is decorated beautifully for the holiday season. Come enjoy the festive atmosphere inside and out. You may take your own photos or have us email you a copy of photos we take of your family with Santa from 5-7 p.m. CST in the lodge lobby. A buffet dinner will be served from 5-8 p.m. at Clifty Creek Restaurant. For information, call 1-800-325-1711.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Dec. 3 Supper With Santa

Dec. 14 and 16 Holiday Buffet

Supper with Santa will include children’s activities, holiday crafts and a visit from the big guy himself. Grayson’s Landing Restaurant will host a special buffet from 4:30 to 8 p.m. CST with adults at $7.99 and children at $4.99 (plus tax). The festivities begin at 4:30 p.m.

Grayson’s Landing also will host a Holiday Luncheon Buffet on Dec. 14 and a Holiday Dinner Buffet on Dec. 16. Small businesses and the general public are invited to attend and enjoy the special holiday menu. Pricing is $7.99 for lunch and $12.99 for dinner (plus drink and tax). Call 1-800-325-1713.

Waveland State Historic Site, Lexington

Dec. 10-11

Christmas Candlelight Tour

Waveland State Historic Site will host its Christmas Candlelight Tour on Dec. 10-11 from 6-9 p.m. EST. The tour is a beloved holiday tradition. Waveland mansion will be decorated in the style of the 1840s, along with period entertainment. Refreshments will be served in the plantation’s 200-year-old log cabin. The cost is $7 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $4 for students of any age. Children under 6 are given free admission. Call 859-272-3611.

White Hall State Historic Site, Richmond

Dec. 2-3, 9-10

Victorian Christmas

Visit White Hall to learn about holiday practices from the past and how they are still used today. The historic home will feature holiday lights and other seasonal decorations, open 6-8 p.m. EST. Tickets for adults are $7 and children ages 6-12 are $4. Group rates for 10 or more. Bring a canned item for a food drive. Call 859-623-9178 for information.

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KaLightoscope at the Galt House, Louisville

Nov. 18, 2010 to Jan. 3, 2011
KaLightoscope – coming to the U.S. for the first time – is a landscape of larger-than-life, lighted holiday sculptures inspired by ancient Chinese art. Made of sheer, painted fabrics, each figure towers more than 20 feet high, enhanced by light, color and an imaginative setting. Santa’s Midnight Flight over the World, Toyland and Nativity are just some of the 12 areas designed to awe and delight. Holiday music, aromas and surprises combine inside a temperature controlled, 16,000 square foot pavilion at the Galt House Hotel on the riverfront in downtown Louisville. Special packages with overnight accommodations at the hotel and KaLightoscope tickets are available.
www.kalightoscope.com
800-775-7777 or 502-584-7777

Christmas in the Valley, Renfro Valley

Nov. 19, 2010 to Jan. 1, 2011
The wonders of the season this year at Renfro Valley Entertainment Center include a Santa train, children’s choir and carolers. An original stage production that combines Christmas music and comedy will be performed Friday and Saturday nights from Nov. 19 through Dec. 11. More than 10,000 twinkling lights await visitors with one of the largest light displays in Kentucky, through Jan. 1, 2011. Put country flair in your shopping and pause for a holiday meal at the historic lodge restaurant or shop in nearby Berea (only 11 miles away).
www.renfrovalley.com
800-765-7464

Winter Wonderland, Owensboro

Nov. 26, 2010 to Jan. 2, 2011
Owensboro’s RiverPark Center comes alive for the holidays with Winter Wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights, ice skating, choirs and other live musical entertainment, and a giant screen showing classic holiday movies. Visit with Santa and enjoy carousel and other rides for children and adults.  Nibble on pizza, hot dogs and other tasty snacks accompanied by hot chocolate and holiday spirits. Open Friday through Monday until Dec. 19, then daily except for Christmas Eve and Day. Free Mondays.
www.riverparkcenter.org
270-687-2770

Lights Under Louisville

Nov. 19, 2010 to Jan. 2, 2011
For the second year, the Louisville MEGA Cavern transforms into a Christmas light spectacular for the entire region to experience. Last year, Lights Under Louisville featured 35 displays and 300 LED light characters with more than 1 million points of light, and this year the attraction has almost doubled in scope. The attraction allows the public to drive their own vehicles through the cavern’s passageways and experience this 30-40 minute Christmas wonderland.
www.louisvillemegacavern.com
877-614-6342

Winter Wonderland of Lights, Ashland

Nov. 25, 2010 to Jan. 2, 2011
Stroll through Ashland’s 52-acre Central Park ablaze with 50 magical holiday displays containing more than 800,000 lights. The Winter Wonderland of Lights brings holiday cheer to downtown for the entire five-week celebration.
www.winterwonderlandoflights.com
606-324-6860

Southern Lights at the Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington
Nov. 26 to Dec. 31, 2010
The annual Southern Lights attraction at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is an electrical wonderland with lighted displays recreating famous horses racing to the finish line, Cinderella driving to the ball and an array of other exciting themes. From Nov. 26 to Dec. 31, you’ll have the opportunity to get in the holiday spirit by driving through the lights displays and then continue the experience indoors with petting zoos, model railways, arts, crafts and Santa Claus.
www.southernlightsky.org
859-255-5727

Noble Park Holiday Light Display, Paducah

Nov. 26 to Dec. 31, 2010
Enjoy a drive-through experience of one of the region’s premier holiday lights displays at Bob Noble Park in Paducah.
270-575-4000

For more ideas of things to do in Kentucky during the holidays, visit www.kytourism.com and click on “Holiday Events.”

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What’s not to love about this time of year? Starbucks unveils their amazing seasonal drinks and desserts, the trees put on their Sunday best, the air is brisk, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, UK Basketball comes back to life, and you can realistically start talking about Christmas.

Granted, I’m one of those people who talks about Christmas year-round. But, right around this time of year, people stop looking at me like I have two heads when I bring the subject up.

The annual Variety! Christmas Show just adds to the excitement of the season.  When I read the following on their Facebook page, I couldn’t help get a little giddy and I’ll confess I started humming Christmas tunes. Truth be told, I think I’ll toss in a Christmas cd after my husband leaves for work (the whole two heads thing, you know).

Do what you have to do, see who you have to see, and drive as long as you have to drive to make it to the Variety! Christmas Show 2010 opening night.  It’s Thursday November 4th at 7:00 and I’m giving you plenty of notice, so I’ll see you at the concession stand.  I’ll even let you in front of me if you promise to leave me some hot chocolate.

From Variety! Music, Memories & More in Grand Rivers, KY

Variety! Christmas Show 2010. Opening Night Special ONLY $5!! Thursday November 4th at 7:00. All Proceeds will Benefit the Guatemalan Exchange Student – Valeriano Chub – who is currently attending Murray State University and is sponsored solely by donations from patrons of the Badgett Playhoue. Valeriano is studying to be an english teacher in his home country at a school in eastern Guatemala called Ak’Tenamit (www.aktenamit.org). A silent auction will be held and a donation will be taken that night. AND…..FREE MILK AND COOKIES FOR EVERYONE for that night only.

Cookies?!?!?  About letting you in front of me……

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Meijer presents “The World’s Largest Halloween Party!” at the Louisville Zoo October 8-10, 14-17, 21-24 and 28-30, 2010

Be seen, not scared. The sweetest Halloween party in town is almost here.

For 14 nights in October (October 8-10, 14-17, 21-24 and 28-30, 2010) Meijer will present “The World’s Largest Halloween Party!” at the Louisville Zoo where little ones can dress up in their wildest costumes and set off on a magical journey through the Zoo.

This beloved annual community tradition provides not-so-scary fun for families and features costumed characters to meet and greet and fanciful, larger-than-life storybook scenes throughout the Zoo. Plus there’s trick-or-treating for kids 11 and under. (In an effort to be “green,” we are asking children to bring their own trick-or-treat bag to the event.)  New this year is Toyland, where everyone’s favorite toys come to life – but they are really larger than life!

As a special treat, on October 22-23, PNC’s Grow Up Great Mobile Learning Adventure at the Zoo’s front entrance will be taking free photos of little ones in their costumes. On October 28-30, the fun will start before guests even enter the party when they visit Meijer’s Mobile Virtual Playground at the Zoo’s front entrance.

Also be sure to check out:

• Meijer’s Pirate’s Cove
• Mumpkin the Giant Talking Pumpkin
• Super Hero City
• PNC’s Grow Up Great Storybook Land
• Subway’s Land of Oz
• Ogre’s Swamp
• And much, much more!

All main Party festivities are included with regular party admission.

Several special “thrilling” experiences will be available for the adventuresome (special fees and some restrictions apply). These include:

• Dinosaurs! at Night.  16 super life-like animatronic dinosaurs are amazing during the day but they are spectacular at night! ($4 per person)
• Spooktacular Haunted Carousel ($2 per person)
• 4-D ride with SpongeBob SquarePants ™($4 per person)
• NEW Zip Line over Meijer’s Pirate’s Cove at Waterfowl Lake ($10.80)
• Sky Trail ® High Adventure Course ( $6.30)
• The  Headless Horseman of Sleepy  Hollow Tour sponsored by Councilman Jim King, District 10 with additional support from Councilman James Peden, District 23 ($2)

The Zoo closes to daytime visitors at 3 p.m. on event days and Halloween Party guests can enter from 5 to 8:30 p.m. A special ticket for the event is required for visitors age 3 and up.

Ticket price is $8 per person at the Zoo or online now at www.louisvillezoo.org. Advance discount tickets are available at area Meijer stores for $6.50 ($1.50 off full-priced tickets).  Groups of 15 or more can purchase tickets for $6.50 per person online at www.louisvillezoo.org or by contacting the Zoo’s Group Sales department at 238-5348 at least 72 hours in advance.

The party is free for Louisville Zoo members (and any persons covered by their membership) on select nights—October 8-10 and 14-17.  Louisville Zoo Members must purchase half-price tickets ($4) for other nights. These tickets are only available at the Zoo or online.

This event is one of the Zoo’s major fundraising events, so encourage friends and family to support the Zoo by attending this time-honored family activity.

There are various parking options for the Halloween event. To park in the Zoo’s main parking lot, there is a $5 parking fee per car. Free parking and shuttle bus service is available at the Derby City Ball Field (from I-264, drive north toward the Zoo on Poplar Level Road and turn right at Taylor Avenue by Wendy’s Restaurant. Go to the end of the block and follow the signs.) Shuttles start about 15 minutes prior the beginning of the event and do not stop until the last car leaves the ball field. Shuttles are handicapped accessible and can handle strollers and wagons.

For answers to frequently asked questions about the party, visit http://www.louisvillezoo.org/events/halloween.htm.

“The World’s Largest Halloween Party!” presented by Meijer is also made possible by the sponsorship of Momslikeme.com, PNC Grow Up Great and Subway.

Additional sponsorship is provided by Councilman Jim King, 10^th District, Gattiland, Kentucky State Fair Board, Kentucky Education Savings Plan Trust, UPS and White Lion — the movie.

With additional support from All About Kids, Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches, Caring for your Smile – Dr. Westerman, Carnes and Setzer Transportation, Chili’s Grill and Bar, Delta Dental, Hartland Equipment Company, Lead Safe Louisville, Philpott Hay Company, Sysco, Tumbleweed Southwest Grill and Wolter Chiropractic.

Please Note:

Costumes/Masks: Kids are encouraged to wear costumes but they are certainly not required.  Adults may also wear costumes but we ask that they be family-friendly (not scary).  And since this event caters to small children we must require that adults NOT wear masks that cover the face.

Animals:  For their health and safety most of the Zoo animal exhibits are not guaranteed to be open beyond dusk with the exception of the HerpAquarium.

Road Closings: The following road closings begin at 4 p.m. on event days: Illinois Ave. from Trevilian Way to Taylor Ave., Russell and Grenade. There will also be signs posted for no parking on Illinois Ave. from Trevilian Way to Taylor Ave., Russell, Grenade, Ridgefield, Tycoon and Oak Hill.

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It’s that time of year again – ghosts, goblins, pumpkins, and other unspeakable creatures lurk behind every corner.  At least we have fun thinking they do.

Kentucky knows how to have a ball with Halloween and the fun is starting to shape up.  I have lots of posts about pumpkin patches, Halloween events, and haunted houses in store – so watch for them. The ghouls are about to take over Genuine Kentucky!

Check this one out:  General Butler State Resort Park is hosting a “Spirits of Butler Paranormal Weekend” on Oct. 23-24.

Join Starr Williams, certified ghost investigator and spokesperson of Psy Tech Radio, and the investigation team RIP for a weekend of ghost hunting at the Butler-Turpin State Historic House and cemetery located at General Butler State Resort Park in Carrollton.

Learn about the theories, the latest in high-tech equipment and the best practices of ghost investigations followed by an actual investigation led by the “Spirits of Butler” team.

The park is offering a weekend package that includes the Saturday night paranormal event, one night’s lodging, an evening buffet and breakfast at Two Rivers Restaurant. The cost is $159 plus tax per couple and $99 plus tax for individuals.

The park is also offering the Saturday evening program only for $30 a person.

Make reservations for either the Spirits of Butler package or Saturday-only investigation by calling 1-866-462-8853. Ask for Spirits of Butler Weekend.

General Butler State Resort Park has a lodge, cottages, restaurant, camping, boating, hiking and biking, along with other recreational activities. The Butler-Turpin House was built in 1859 and served as the home of one of the state’s most prominent military families. For more information, visit www.parks.ky.gov.

General Butler State Resort Park is located at 1608 Highway 227 in Carrollton.

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As part of the Labor Day holiday weekend festivities, you can see an impressive collection of reproduction Civil War flags, both Confederate and Union.

The flags, by Spencer and Linda Brewer of Central City, represent units from Kentucky and Tennessee. The flags will be on display outside the museum.

Jefferson Davis State Historic Site marks the birthplace of the Confederate president, Jefferson Davis. Kentucky has always taken pride in the fact that the President of the Union (Abraham Lincoln) as well as the President of the Confederacy (Jefferson Davis) were BOTH born in Kentucky.

The park features a 351-foot monument that was completed in 1924 and includes an elevator. The site also has a museum and gift shop. There is also a picnic area on the park grounds.

The gift shop features Kentucky handcrafts, souvenirs, books and Civil War memorabilia. The site is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through October. There is a fee for the museum and monument.

The site is 9 miles east of Hopkinsville on U.S. 68.

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Fireworks Of Fishing This Weekend On “Kentucky Afield” TV
In honor of the Fourth of July weekend, Kentucky Afield is having their own kind of fireworks. They’ll feature a retrospective of the most exciting fishing trips in recent years on “Kentucky Afield” television this weekend, July 3 and 4.

The fun begins in eastern Kentucky on the Little Sandy River. There, one fish whose bite says ka-boom is muskellunge. As showcased on the “Best of Kentucky Afield Fishing” DVD, host Tim Farmer tags along with local expert Bob Elliott.

On the opposite end of the state, viewers will visit Kentucky Lake for bluegill with Roy Kenady. The Christian County resident puts Farmer on an excellent catch, as the fish are ready to spawn.

At Lake Barkley, one species anglers circle in red is the redear sunfish. Some call them shellcrackers, but today, they are like firecrackers. Farmer takes notes from Jack Devor on his homemade jigs and baits that sweeten the catch.

“Kentucky Afield” is a production of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. It is the longest continuously running outdoor television show in the nation. The program airs at 8:30 p.m. Eastern /7:30 p.m. Central Saturdays, and repeats at 4 p.m. Eastern/3 p.m. Central Sundays on KET 1. To see the latest news about “Kentucky Afield” television and view your favorite show segments from the past, sign up today for the electronic newsletter. Visit fw.ky.gov on the Internet and click the Kentucky Afield Newsletter icon.

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Ice cream? Fireworks? Now where are you going to beat that?!

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What a super cool idea for all of you mad hatters!  Kentucky Derby hats is one of Kentucky’s most beautiful and popular traditions, dating back over 100 years!

Now, thanks to Dee’s in Louisville, you can wax creative and create your very own, highly unique and original Kentucky Derby hat.  By taking a “Derby Hat Decorating Class” at Dee’s Crafts in Louisville, Kentucky, you can ensure that your hat turns out exactly how you want it to.

Dee’s own designers will help participants create awe-inspiring and head-turning hats for Oaks, Derby, Easter, and other special spring occasions.

Apparently these hat decorating classes were so popular last year that the Shelbyville Road store (5045 Shelbyville Road) is holding three classes this month. Future hat designers can choose from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 13th, or 6 to 8 p.m. March 17th or March 24th.

There will be unadorned hats in many shapes and sizes to choose from or you can bring one of your own. The decorations, of course, must be purchased at Dee’s and will include a gorgeous selection of feathers, ribbon, and flowers.

The fee is $20, plus the cost of materials. Class size is limited, so call to register asap. Call (502) 896-6755.

Dee’s is at 5045 Shelbyville Road – Louisville, Kentucky.

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