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Not just one, but two towns in Jessamine County were painted last week.

The annual Jessamine County Paint the Town took place on Thursday, June 23 at City/County Park. The event lasted from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 5 p.m. with a two-hour break between sessions.

The community was invited to come in and paint a banner that will eventually be hung up on Main St. in Nicholasville, or downtown Wilmore.

The volunteers came from all over Jessamine County, and the ages ranged from school kids to senior citizens. Participants get a chance to show some creativity in making community artwork – a total of ten Wilmore and 24 Nicholasville banners were created.

“When they get hung on Main Street, you will see people get out of their cars and take a picture with their kids with it hanging on the pole, that’s what kind of brings it all full circle. Kids get to see their artwork hanging on Main Street, it’s pretty cool.” Justin Ray, Jessamine County Magistrate and coordinator of the event, said.

The Wilmore Community Development Board joined the occasion for the first time giving those in Wilmore a chance to join in the fun.

Paint the Town was started in 2003 and has been held ever since, with the exception of 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

“It’s one of my favorite things our community does. First with the painting, being in a common space with friends and strangers alike, all working on their individual banners. Then later driving down Main Street and seeing your masterpiece hanging on the light poles! I had asked Judy Woolums a few years ago about including Wilmore and then we had to cancel due to the pandemic. She was very excited for the opportunity and I couldn’t be happier how it all turned out,” Ray said. “The event is free thanks to several generous sponsors. We plan on hanging them mid-July. It makes for a pretty exhausting day but to see the smiles it’s all worth it!”