Earth Day isn’t just another day—it’s a chance to show our planet some extra love. And lucky for us, Lexington is rolling out the green carpet with some fantastic ways to celebrate. Whether you want to get your hands dirty planting trees or just enjoy a sustainable meal, here are six ways to make the most of Earth Day this April!

 

1. 12th Annual Main Street Clean Sweep 

Let’s be real—litter isn’t cute. Join Keep Lexington Beautiful and Bluegrass Greensource in sprucing up Lexington on Sunday, April 27 from 11am - 1pm, and score some sweet rewards. Volunteers get a free slice from Goodfellas, plus samples from Wise Bird Cider and Ethereal. If that’s not enough motivation, Nerd Babes will also be handing out fun prizes. Do good, get goodies. Click here for more event information.

 

Distillery District

 

2. Reforest the Bluegrass 

Give back to the Bluegrass by helping plant trees at Reforest the Bluegrass on Saturday, April 19! This annual event is Lexington’s biggest reforestation effort, and it’s a hands-on way to make a lasting impact. Bonus: You’ll have bragging rights every time you pass by a tree you planted. Find additional details here.

 

The sun rises over misty rolling green hills dotted with trees at Jonabell Farm.

 

3. Dine at KY-Grown Ingredient Restaurants

Farm-to-table isn’t just trendy—it’s sustainable! Support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint by dining at restaurants that use Kentucky-grown ingredients. Fresh, local, and delicious—what more could you ask for?

Bella Notte

  • 3715 Nicholasville Road

With over twenty years of experience, this restaurant creates rave-worthy Italian dishes using quality, fresh ingredients.

Granddam

  • 941 Manchester Street

Granddam is the Manchester's expansive Bluegrass dining hall - and also the name of a matriarchal racehorse. Conjure her spirit…

Smashing Tomato

  • 2200 War Admiral Way

The art of pizza-making is alive and well, thanks to their commitment to perfecting Neapolitan-style pies, which are made with…

Merrick Inn

  • 1074 Merrick Drive

This spot is consistently voted among the city’s best dining destinations. A stylish, yet relaxed restaurant known for serving…

Athenian Grill

  • 313 South Ashland Avenue

Offering truly authentic Greek cuisine, owner Ilias Pappas grew up in a small town near Athens watching his mom cook on an open…

County Club

  • 555 Jefferson Street

Located in a stylishly renovated garage, this spot prides itself on both exploring and expanding the American tradition of smoking…

Athenian Grill

  • 120 East Main Street

Serving authentic Greek recipes from found Ilias Pappas’ family traditions, Athenian Grill has an unmistakable family atmosphere…

4. Enjoy Our Local Parks

Sometimes the best way to appreciate nature is simply to be in it. Take a hike, have a picnic, or just go for a stroll in one of Lexington’s beautiful parks. From Raven Run to the Legacy Trail, there’s no shortage of scenic spots.

5. Support Sustainability-Certified Businesses

Want to put your money where your values are? Check out Lex for Good’s list of sustainability-certified businesses here. Whether it’s shopping, dining, or grabbing a coffee, these businesses are doing their part for the planet—why not support them?

6. Visit Lexington Responsibly

Tourists and locals alike can make eco-friendly choices by following VisitLEX’s guide, "How To Visit Lexington Responsibly." From reducing plastic waste to supporting local businesses, small choices can make a big difference.

Get Out and Celebrate!

Lexington is making it easy (and fun) to go green this Earth Day. Whether you're volunteering, dining, or just enjoying nature, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. So grab a friend, pick an event (or two), and let’s show some love to the planet!