The public is invited to a Lexington Independence Day tradition July 3 as Transylvania University hosts the city’s Patriotic Concert on the lawn of historic Old Morrison.
The free, family-friendly event kicks off with a preshow from 5:30-7:30 p.m. followed by the main performance by the Lexington Philharmonic lasting until 9. Free parking is available, and the city encourages you to “bring your blankets, lawn chairs and a picnic, or enjoy dinner from a variety of food trucks.”
This is the 40th anniversary of the university hosting the Patriotic Concert. Each year, crowds fill the lawn in Old Morrison Circle, spilling across Third Street into Gratz Park, and neighbors visit outside surrounding homes decorated with bunting.
The city’s other Fourth of July events include a market, festival, parade and fireworks.
Over the years, the concert at Transylvania has also featured the Kentucky National Guard’s 202nd U.S. Army Band, Lexington Singers, various soloists and an area where children can explore different musical instruments. It’s one of several large campus events beloved by the local community; another holiday-related one is PumpkinMania held each year around Halloween.