The 40th Annual Bardstown Road Aglow will take place on Saturday, December 6, from noon to 10 p.m., and Louisville’s Highlands area is getting ready for one of its most famous winter customs.
The event has long been the neighborhood’s largest commerce day of the year and the unofficial start of the season.
“There’s only 30 days to go until the 40th Anniversary of Bardstown Road Aglow. We’re celebrating in a big way with bigger and brighter lights on our Holiday Tree. There’s lots more musical groups this year performing live and festive music along Bardstown Road. The Highlands is making a come back with many new restaurants and new retail shops that will be joining in all the holiday fun,” said Aaron Givhan, Highland Commerce Guild President.
The event is set to kick off at noon and will last until 10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
What’s Happening This Year
Holiday Tree Lighting
The community gathers at Wendy’s (1108 Bardstown Road at Grinstead Drive), where WHAS’s Connie Leonard will host alongside Santa Claus. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the tree lighting at 6 p.m. with a performance by Voices of Kentuckiana.
Free Trolley Rides
Trolley de ’Ville will run two free trolleys throughout Bardstown Road, Baxter and Barret Avenues, and the Douglass Loop—making it easy to explore the neighborhood’s shops, restaurants, and pop-up moments.
Live Holiday Music
The Louisville Music Federation will station performers at multiple Highlands locations, adding a nonstop soundtrack to the day’s festivities.
Maker’s Mark Holiday Drinks
As the event’s Gold Sponsor, Maker’s Mark will be featured in special seasonal cocktails available for purchase at participating restaurants and bars. Proceeds support Gilda’s Club of Kentuckiana.
Special Discounts
Shops and eateries throughout the Highlands will offer exclusive deals on food, drinks, and merchandise. It’s traditionally the neighborhood’s biggest shopping day for a reason.
This article appears in Nov. 1-30, 2025.