LEXINGTON, Ky. — Bardstown is one of several cities across the country making this holiday season brighter.
Saint John AME Zion Church in Bardstown's Rev. Roscoe Linton has a list of children whom their church is providing gifts for this Christmas. The church is collecting gifts for several organizations, including the prison fellowship, and helps infants to 17-year-olds who have an incarcerated parent.
The church also grabbed names from a local senior facility to help with snacks, blankets, pajamas and personal items.
Like many in his community, Linton, a Bardstown native, said he and his church are beyond invested in Christmas. It's why the city's large Christmas tree stands tall in the center of downtown and lights are strung across the city hall.
Linton added the downtown has always been picturesque and decked out during the holidays, along with antique shops filled with Christmas favors such as longtime gift shop and boutique At Mary's.
People come into the store seeking themed decor and custom cocktails inspired by Bardstown or a signature piece of Christmas, said Ava Roby, At Mary's co-op student. Inside, there are ornaments and trees around every corner, matching the nationally recognized downtown area.
HGTV named Bardstown one of its favorite small towns to visit for Christmas. Bardstown also made the top 30 list of the "most Christmassy towns," published by Mixbook.com.
"We decorate downtown; it's very Christmassy," Roby said. "There are lights ... it just feels like a big family during Christmas time because everyone's around each other."
Linton's church will host a special service early Sunday morning, Dec. 24, in addition to more events with neighboring churches.
“It's a time where people come together; they can fellowship and still share that love,” Linton said.