For the past four years, one of my favorite holiday traditions in Louisville has been walking from my house to the “Wendy’s Christmas tree.” Yes, you read that right—the Wendy’s Christmas tree. If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone. But for many locals, this quirky tradition is the heart of Bardstown Road Aglow, an event that marks the start of the holiday season in the Highlands.
Bardstown Road Aglow is a celebration unlike any other in the city. Every first Saturday in December since 1985, the area comes alive with a festive energy that’s rare for this usually quiet stretch of the street. Free hot apple cider, packed shops brimming with Christmas décor, trolley rides and the sound of holiday tunes spilling from St. James Catholic Church create a joyful atmosphere. The street, which on weekdays is often quiet with only a few homeless residents who call Bardstown Road home, is transformed into a bustling, holiday wonderland.
For some, Bardstown Road has a reputation for its crime and the numerous smoke shops that line its sidewalks. But Bardstown Road Aglow shows a different side of this Louisville thoroughfare, one filled with community spirit and holiday cheer. At 6:00 p.m. sharp, a countdown marks the lighting of the “Christmas tree”—which, rather humorously, is simply a large tree outside the Wendy’s. The event also features appearances by local stars, including Santa Claus and the Voices of Kentuckiana choir.
This annual gathering might seem ironic to some, considering the neighborhood’s challenges, but to me, it’s quintessentially Louisville—a city that embraces its contradictions. As you walk farther down Bardstown Road, the scene becomes even more vibrant, with people from across Kentucky and southern Indiana flocking to the area. The shops are alive with the energy of the season, and one of my favorite spots, Carmichael’s Bookstore, becomes a must-visit destination during the event.
Perhaps my favorite part of the night is the music. As I stroll through the crowd, I hear the faint sound of carols drifting from St. James Church. The church, often crowded to its steps, is handing out hot apple cider and festive treats to visitors. Stepping inside feels like entering another world—one where the history of centuries-old churches and angelic voices fills the air. Even as the cider steams in my hands, the experience is otherworldly, and it’s always hard to leave when the music finally fades.
Afterward, the holiday spirit is alive throughout the neighborhood. Vintage shops line the street with displays of the ugliest Christmas sweaters, and while I never buy one, I can never resist the sweet temptation of candy from the Sweet Spot, which generously offers free hot chocolate. Just outside, the Highlands Neighborhood Association sets up a booth handing out free gingerbread men. The festive cheer is contagious, and it’s hard not to get swept up in the magic of the night.
Further down the street, rainbow-colored Christmas lights twinkle outside the Book and Music Exchange, and families gather to begin their own holiday traditions. As I head toward the Wendy’s Christmas tree, now glowing with lights, it’s clear that this event has become a defining Louisville tradition for many.
Bardstown Road Aglow is more than just a holiday event; it’s a reminder of the simple joy of community, the warmth of the season, and how, even in a busy and often overwhelming world, there’s always a place to find the Christmas spirit. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Bardstown Road Aglow offers an unforgettable escape every first Saturday in December.