LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE)—Bardstown was in the national spotlight Friday morning. The city was chosen as the last stop for the TODAY Show’s Merriest Main Street series, and hundreds of people turned out for this special opportunity.
Way before the sun came up, Bardstown’s Court Square was packed.
“We love Bardstown,” said one resident.
There was so much excitement about the TODAY Show featuring the “Bourbon Capital of the World” as one of the Merriest Main Streets.
”This is like having the president come,” said Jennifer Vincent of Bardstown. “We’re so excited.”
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Before the national hit, tests were done to make sure the bells were ready to toll and fake snow would fall.
”It’s awesome to turn around to see the love and support we have from our community,” said Randi Mouser of Bardstown Main Street. “It makes Bardstown really shine.”
And shine it did.
TODAY Show producer Bob Vasilopulos has worked on a few of the Merriest Main Streets. How would he rank the turnout in Bardstown compared to other cities?
“Off the charts,” he said. “Off the charts. It’s unbelievable how many folks showed up. And at this hour. You always feel guilty. People are going to get up at 5 a.m. and show up in the cold. But they did.”
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Kim Huston spent 30 years in community development in Bardstown.
“I’m never surprised when our people turn out,” Huston said. “They call it Merry. We call it community spirit. And pride and the love of our community.”
One man even showed his love for his now fiancé. He came with a sign that read, “Amanda, will you Merry Me?”
Amanda said yes!
Now, people all over the country know just how strong the holiday spirit is in Bardstown.
“It just goes to show how many people love this town and Christmas,” Vasilopulos said. “Just touches everybody in a great way.”
If this makes you want to head out to Bardstown, Santa, and Mrs. Claus will be in the square Saturday, Dec, 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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