Candlelight Holiday Weekend Tradition
The Candlelight Holiday Weekend Tradition in Downtown Frankfort, November 12-14, 2026, begins the holiday season with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, horse carriage rides, and a petting zoo. Activities include holiday shopping, photos with Santa, food, and drinks.
What to Expect
Magical holiday kickoff with tree lighting and festive downtown activities.
Event Details
Duration
Varies by day
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Frankfort
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- KSU Marching Band
- Jack Twombly
- Damn Tall Buildings
- Kentucky Dance Academy
- Old State Capitol Choir
Organizer
Downtown Frankfort, Inc.
Food & Drink
Delicious Food & Drinks available, including food trucks, holiday drinks, hot cocoa bar, and s'mores.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday shoppers
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: FREE Shuttle Service available on Friday, November 14th, from 5-9 PM for the Pajama Sip & Shop.
- Pets: Petting zoo available; specific attendee pet policy not detailed.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Thursday for the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 PM to secure a good spot.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle service on Friday night for the 'Sip & Shop' event to easily navigate between businesses.
- Check the detailed schedule for Saturday's Polar Express Pajama Party at the Grand Theatre, which includes Santa visits.
- Bring your coziest pajamas for the Friday 'Sip & Shop' event and collect a passport from participating businesses.
- Don't miss the 'Loving Memory Tree' at First UMC to honor loved ones with a special ornament, complete with cookies and a warm drink.
Special Events & Promotions
- Lighting of the Christmas Tree Ceremony
- Horse Carriage Rides
- Petting Zoo
- Santa Claus & Holiday Characters for photo ops
- Special Holiday Activities & Exclusive Holiday Shopping
- Holiday Music Performances
- Delicious Food & Drinks
- Window Decorating Contest
- Holiday Tours at local museums and historical sites
- Nutcracker Dance Performance
- Pajama Sip & Shop Cocktail Stroll
- FREE Shuttle Service on Friday Night
- Life-Size Snow Globe & Holiday Decorations
- Holiday Booths on St. Clair Street
- Holiday Wreath Demonstration
- New Holiday Drink menu and photo op at Engine House Coffee
- Mini Session on Pottery Wheel
- Old State Capitol Choir Performances
- Rebecca Ruth Candy Tour
- KY Proud Tastings & Samples
- Roasting s’mores over firepit
- Gingerbread Bakery treats
- Annual Gingerbread House, Holiday Vendors, and Food Trucks
- Holiday Open House
- Hot Cocoa Bar
- Loving Memory Tree
- Storewide Holiday Sale
- Holiday Special on hometown proud tees
- Holiday Sale on knives or boots
- RUMMAGE and Bake Sale
- Cozy Pajama Themed Stroll 'Sip & Shop'
- Sip & Shop Passports
- Kids’ Night Out: Candlelight Pajama Party
- Art Gallery opening
- Music performance by Damn Tall Buildings
- Santa Themed Treat Day
- Polar Express Pajama Party
- Holiday Bluegrass Music Concert
- Vintage Christmas Tree Painting Workshop
- Pet food drive with discount
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions during the Candlelight Holiday Weekend?
The event features a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, horse carriage rides, a petting zoo, Santa visits, holiday shopping, live music, and festive food and drinks.
Is there a cost to attend the Candlelight Holiday Weekend?
Admission to the Candlelight Holiday Weekend is free. Some activities or purchases may have associated costs.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there are many family-friendly activities including a petting zoo, Santa visits, holiday characters, the Polar Express Pajama Party, and a Kid's Glow Party.
What are the operating hours for each day?
Thursday hours are 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Friday hours are 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, and Saturday hours are 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
Where can I find more information about specific business activities?
Downtown businesses host various activities and specials; check the event schedule and look for 'Holiday Booths' and 'Downtown Businesses Hosting Various Holiday Activities' for details.
More Christmas Events near Frankfort
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.