The holiday season is a magical time for families, and the Heart of Kentucky, offers a wealth of free activities that help create cherished memories without stretching your budget from Thanksgiving to Christmas and into the New Year. From dazzling light displays to festive parades and historic home tours, Hardin County is packed with family-friendly holiday fun that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a guide to the best free holiday activities for locals and visitors alike.
1. Christmas in the Park at Freeman Lake
Nothing says holiday magic like Christmas lights, and Elizabethtown’s Freeman Lake Park transforms into a glowing wonderland each holiday season with its Christmas in the Park event. Families can drive through Freeman Lake Park and admire thousands of sparkling lights illuminating beautiful displays, from Santa and his reindeer to holiday trains and Christmas trees. This drive-through experience allows you to take in the sights from the warmth of your vehicle, making it a cozy and memorable evening for all ages.
When to Go: The display typically begins around Thanksgiving and runs through New Year’s Day. Go early in the season or on weekdays to avoid the holiday rush!
2. Christmas Parades
What better way to kick off the holiday season than with a festive Christmas parade? Hardin County’s holiday parades bring the entire community together, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and even a visit from Santa Claus. Elizabethtown and nearby towns like Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Brandenburg host their own parades, making it easy for families to join in the fun. Parades are a free activity that lets you get into the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses and organizations.
Insider Tip: Arrive early for a good viewing spot and bring blankets and hot cocoa to stay warm!
3. Holiday Open House at the Brown-Pusey House
Located in downtown Elizabethtown, the historic Brown-Pusey House hosts an annual holiday open house that allows families to step back in time and experience the holidays in a beautifully decorated historic setting. The Brown-Pusey House is adorned with holiday decor, showcasing traditional holiday themes, trees, and garlands. This free event often includes live music, carolers, and sometimes holiday treats, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Brown-Pusey House is a gem of Hardin County’s history, and a visit here is both educational and festive. It’s an ideal outing for families who appreciate local heritage and want to teach their children about Kentucky history in an engaging way.
Check Event Times: The open house usually takes place on select days in December. Check the Brown-Pusey House event schedule for more details.
4. Hardin County Public Library Holiday Events
The Hardin County Public Library is a treasure trove of holiday activities for families. Throughout December, the library hosts a variety of free events, including holiday-themed story-times, craft workshops, and sometimes even visits from Santa. These sessions are especially great for young children, as they often include interactive activities like singing, dancing, and making holiday crafts to take home.
In addition to holiday-themed events, the Hardin County Public Library offers free access to books, movies, and games for families to enjoy together throughout the season. This makes the library a great spot for those looking to spend quality time together indoors while engaging in festive activities.
Registration: Some events may require registration, so check the Hardin County Public Library website or call ahead to secure your spot.
5. Holiday Lights and Sights at Radcliff City Park
For families looking to explore more holiday lights, Radcliff City Park also hosts a charming light display that’s free and open to the public. While not as large as Freeman Lake Park’s display, the Radcliff lights are perfect for a low-key evening of holiday cheer. Pack a thermos of hot cocoa, bundle up, and take a stroll through the park as you enjoy the twinkling lights and holiday scenes.
Radcliff City Park is also home to a playground, making it a great stop if you’re looking for some additional free family fun. The holiday lights provide a festive backdrop for photos, so don’t forget to bring a camera!
6. Elizabethtown Nature Park – A Winter Wonderland for Outdoor Family Fun
Elizabethtown Nature Park is a beautiful location year-round, and winter is no exception. While the park doesn’t have a formal holiday display, it offers families the chance to connect with nature and enjoy the crisp winter air. Families can enjoy a peaceful winter walk, snap some photos by the Veteran’s Tribute, or simply enjoy the scenic views.
Consider packing a picnic or thermos of warm drinks and enjoying a winter afternoon surrounded by nature. The Elizabethtown Nature Park offers plenty of space for children to play and explore while adults enjoy the serene landscape.
7. Historic Downtown Elizabethtown – Holiday Window Displays and Self-Guided Walking Tour
Downtown Elizabethtown lights up during the holidays with festive decorations and twinkling lights. Many of the shops and businesses dress up their storefronts with holiday window displays, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for a free family outing. Stroll along Main Street, admire the decorations, and maybe pop into some locally-owned shops if you’re interested in holiday shopping.
In addition to holiday decor, Downtown Elizabethtown has several historical sites that can be visited on a self-guided walking tour. Pick up a map from the tourism office or download one online to explore the town’s history, all while soaking up the holiday ambiance.
8. Festive Photo Ops and Santa Sightings
Hardin County offers plenty of free opportunities for holiday photos, from Santa sightings at local events to community holiday backdrops. Many local businesses and parks set up festive decorations, creating perfect spots for family holiday photos without the cost. Look out for photo opportunities at Freeman Lake Park’s Christmas in the Park or check local event listings for free Santa appearances.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot: Go during the golden hour (just before sunset) for the best lighting, and bring a tripod if you’re using a smartphone to capture family photos.
9. Holiday Markets and Community Events
Throughout the holiday season, Hardin County is home to a variety of free holiday markets and community events where families can enjoy festive music, holiday crafts, and more. While shopping itself isn’t free, browsing these markets and enjoying the live entertainment is! These community gatherings also often feature carolers, holiday treats, and fun activities for kids.
Check Local Listings: Many markets take place on weekends in December, so keep an eye on local event listings for details.
Enjoy a Free and Festive Holiday Season in Hardin County
From beautiful light displays to historic sites and family-friendly library events, Hardin County, Kentucky, offers a rich variety of free holiday activities for families. Whether you’re taking a festive drive through Freeman Lake Park, exploring the historic charm of the Brown-Pusey House, or simply enjoying the holiday spirit in downtown Elizabethtown, there are countless ways to celebrate the season without spending a dime.
Embrace the holiday magic that Hardin County has to offer, and create meaningful memories with your loved ones by exploring these free and festive local events.
