LEXINGTON, Ky. — The City of Lexington is inviting residents to celebrate the community's urban forest during Tree Week, a weeklong festival running Oct. 9-18 featuring more than 50 events designed to enhance appreciation for Lexington's tree canopy.

The celebration kicks off Friday, Oct. 9 with a Tree Week Kick Off and Signature Tree Planting event from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Davis Park, 711 De Roode Street. The opening event will feature live music and tree-related activities for families.

Throughout the week, residents can participate in tree plantings, nature walks, trivia nights and concerts. The schedule also includes tree giveaways and plant exchanges for those looking to increase greenery in their yards. A TreeVangelist training program on Oct. 17 will provide two hours of hands-on instruction for anyone interested in learning how to select and plant trees properly.

The city's Lex Grow Trees private property planting program also opens Oct. 9, offering residents free trees for their properties. Registration opens Friday morning and spots fill quickly, according to officials.

All event details and registration information are available at lexingtonky.gov/treeweek. Those interested in the free tree program can find registration forms at lexingtonky.gov/urbanforestry.

Tree Week is organized by the city and the Tree Week Planning Committee as part of a statewide initiative to promote increased tree canopy. The effort involves numerous groups and individuals throughout Fayette County collaborating to highlight the importance of Lexington's urban forest.