In 47 days · Sat, Nov 21, 2026
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Saturday, November 21st, 2026
4089 Iron Works Pike, Lexington KY
5K
36–52°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 3 of the last 10 years
2025
47–60°F
rain
2024
33–44°F
dry
2023
44–57°F
rain
2022
24–47°F
dry
2021
43–47°F
rain
2020
49–57°F
dry
2019
40–55°F
dry
2018
25–46°F
dry
2017
38–55°F
dry
2016
28–43°F
dry
Best months to race in Kentucky →
Race-day forecast says layers
36°F at the start.
Gloves, ear warmers, throwaway layers, hand warmers — delivered before race day.
About this race
🌟🎅 Kick Off the Holidays at the 2026 Southern Lights Stroll! 🎅🌟
📍 Kentucky Horse Park | Saturday, November 21, 2026
Ready, set… GLOW!
It’s that magical time of year again—and there’s no better way to jumpstart your holiday season than by literally lighting the way! Join us for the Southern Lights Stroll, your one-night-only chance to walk, run, and twirl through the iconic lights of the Kentucky Horse Park—before the cars take over! Whether you're chasing a personal best or strolling with hot cocoa in hand, there's something for everyone:
🏁 5K Chip-Timed Race – Starts at 5:30 PM
🏁 All 5K participants are expected to start at 5:30 PM
🚶♀️ Stroll (Untimed Walk) – Begins at 6:00 PM
🎄 All Stroll participants must be on the course by 8:00 PM—don’t miss the magic!
🎅 The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line!
Once you cross into the Holiday Village, stick around for a night of merry memory-making:
🎁 Photos with Santa
🍬 Tootie’s Peppermint Café
🚂 Mini Train Rides
🎶 Music, lights, and holiday vibes
🎉 And even more surprises to be revealed!
👕 Limited-edition event shirts go to the first 2,000 adults registered—so don’t wait!
👧 Kids 12 & under may participate for FREE! (Race shirt not included)
🎟️ Packet Pickup Details:
📍 Visitor Information Center at the Kentucky Horse Park
Thursday, November 19 | 4:30–7:00 PM
Friday, November 20 | 4:30–7:00 PM
Saturday, November 21 | Starting at 4:00 PM
INSIDER TIP: Pick up your packet on Thursday or Friday to make race day a breeze
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
We're thrilled to announce a brand-new route for this year's Southern Lights Stroll! Lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore a reimagined path filled with dazzling lights, festive cheer, and magical surprises around every turn. Whether you're a returning fan or a first-time visitor, this new route promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.
📍 Start Line: In front of the Kentucky Horse Park Visitors Center
🎉 Finish Line: Right in the heart of the festive Holiday Village
🎄 Join the glow. Feel the joy. Start the season with sparkle.
The Southern Lights Stroll is more than a race—it’s a celebration. Bring your family, your friends, your dog (on a leash, of course), and your holiday spirit!
See you under the lights!
Course map
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