Why Lexington, Kentucky?
We’re proud to have so many cultures, ethnicities and traditions represented and celebrated here in Lexington. From thriving cultural centers and events to official policies and protections, Lexington is a place where all are welcome—making it a great place for groups and events celebrating diversity.
Lexpert Spotlight
Lexington is home to some pretty smart folks. Get in touch to see how one of our local leaders in diversity can help make your meeting a big hit.
Dr. Katrice A. Albert
Vice President, University of Kentucky Office of Institutional Diversity
Area of Focus - Counseling Psychologist, Higher Education Access, Opportunity, and Success Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, Belonging Books and Book Chapters on Travon Martin, Racial Battle Fatigue in Higher Education, Diversity in Higher Education, Community University Partnerships
Craig Cammack
Community Outreach Liason, Lexington-Fayette County Urban Government
Area of Focus - LGBTQ Relations, Neighborhood Engagement, School Partnerships and Veterans Affairs
Dr. Nicole L. Martin
Director, Inclusive Excellence and Diversity Education, University of Kentucky
Area of Focus - Diversity/Inclusion Education, Anti-Bias Facilitation
Dale Morgan
Founder & CEO, FOUNDATION47
Area of Focus - Financial Literacy, Keynote and Motivational Speaking, Commercials, and Lifestyle Magazine Print
Kay Sargent
Executive Director, Lexington Sister Cities
Area of Focus - Engaging Different Cultures, Academic Exchanges, International Group Travel
What Makes Us Unique?
Diversity in Lexington
African-American Heritage
Both notable and unsung African-American citizens are celebrated within the downtown African-American Heritage Trail and African-American Jockeys of the Kentucky Derby along the Legacy Trail.
The Lyric Theater
Opened in 1948, the Lyric Theatre, in the historically African-American East End, has hosted artists like Ray Charles, Count Basie and B.B. King. Today it is a thriving artistic and cultural center.
Cultural Celebrations
Our packed cultural events calendar includes the Roots & Heritage Festival—recognized as one of the Top 10 festivals in Kentucky--the Festival Latino de Lexington, and the Lexington Pride Festival.
Global Lex
Operated by our local government, this multilingual, multidisciplinary center serves local residents and our foreign-born population, helping them obtain information and access programs and services.
Community Centers
In addition to Global Lex (which includes an international art gallery), Lexington has multiple centers to serve our cultural communities, including a new Hispanic Community Center opening soon.
185 Languages
Approximately 185 languages are spoken in Lexington. The top ten you might hear around town? Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Japanese, Nepali, French, Mandarin, Kinyarwanda, Korean and Portuguese.
Fairness Ordinance
In 1999, we were the first local government in Kentucky to pass a county-wide, fully-inclusive Fairness Ordinance, prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Serving the LGBTQ+ Community
The Lexington Mayor’s Office and the Division of Police both have LGBTQ Liaisons. In 2021, Lexington received a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign based on its inclusivity.
Religious Diversity
Lexington is home to more than 50 denominations and religious groups, with 230+ churches, synagogues, mosques and temples. We’re proud to welcome all with our unique brand of Southern hospitality.
"#3 Friendliest City in the U.S."
- Readers’ Choice Awards | 2023
“One of the Best Weekend Getaways in the U.S.”
- AFAR
“Top 10 Bucket List Destination”
- USA Today
Meet Your Personal Sales and Service Representative
Stephen Barnett Director of Destination Sales
Religious, Medical, Fraternal - Greek, Diversity, Corporate (100 peak rooms or more)
Featured Unique Venues
From unique to unexpected, choose a venue that makes your meeting truly one-of-a-kind.
21c Museum Hotel
Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center
Originally built in 1948, the Lyric hosted big names like Ray Charles, Count Basie and BB King. The...
The Kentucky Castle
This famous landmark was first built as a private residence. Tours of the castle and grounds are...
Featured Attractions
Lexington is a special place. Give your attendees a uniquely Lexington experience they’ll rave about for years to come.
Visit Horse Country
Visit Horse Country provides a central booking outlet for member horse farms and medical equine...
Red Mile Gaming and Racing
Red Mile Gaming & Racing is the second oldest harness racing track in the world and one of the...
Buffalo Trace Distillery
One of America's oldest continuously operating distilleries, even staying open during Prohibition....