“Hometown Christmas,” a series of holiday activities, kicks off this Friday with the lighting of the Christmas tree and the return of the Dancing Lights interactive display in Smothers Park. Events for all ages run through December 31 and include festive photo ops, outdoor skating at Energy on Ice, and more.
The Christmas tree lighting event will begin at 5 p.m. Friday and includes a performance from the Kentucky Youth Chorale. Following the lighting of the tree, the Dancing Lights display also begin. Every 15 minutes from 5-9 p.m. nightly through December 31, lights will dance to a different classic Christmas carol.
The following evening, at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 19, will include the return of the Owensboro-Daviess County Christmas Parade along 2nd Street, starting at Pearl Street and ending at Locust Street.
“We’ve done a pretty good job here in Owensboro over the years of building a handful of signature events that we’re known for that the local citizens can enjoy those and draws visitors from out of town,” said Tim Ross, City of Owensboro Public Events Director.
Energy on Ice returns to the Convention Center on November 25 and will run every weekend through December 23. The Kentucky Legend Pier will be able converted to an outdoor synthetic ice rink. Hours will be be 5-9 p.m. on Fridays, 2-9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2-7 p.m. on Sundays. The rink will also be open from 2-7 p.m. on December 19-22.
Friday After 5 is also bringing back Christmas at the Inn on December 2, 9, and 16 from 6-8 p.m. Guests can enter a giant inflated igloo, take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more at Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront (701 West 1st Street).
Other events include the Hot Chocolate Hop and Holiday Photo Night, plus numerous productions at the RiverPark Center, Bluegrass Hall of Fame, and Owensboro Convention Center.
For a complete listing of Hometown Christmas activities, visit owensboro.org/christmas.
