Warmest wishes, Louisville. We’re taking a pause on newsletters to spend time with our loved ones. We’ll see you back in your inboxes daily at 6 a.m., starting Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. In the meantime, peruse our archives here.
Culture
Culture
🎄 Yule be the judge
The holidays are full of traditions we love — and a few we love to argue about. | Graphic by 6AM City
Holiday traditions evoke warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia, gratitude, and togetherness. But for all the joy that traditions inspire, they also tend to spark something else: very strong opinions.
This year, we’re stepping in to settle classic holiday hot takes. After all, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without a few friendly debates.
Real tree or fake tree?
Is cutting down a fresh spruce part of the magic, or does an artificial tree make more sense?
Big night out or stay home on New Year’s Eve?
Can a couch countdown by the television beat a sequin–filled night on the town? If you’re going out with a bang,here’s what’s happening around Louisville on NYE.
Should you leave festive decorations up past the holiday?
When is it time to say goodbye to the garland?
Is eggnog festive and flavorful or absolutely foul?
Don’t get us started on whether it should be served warm or cold.
Do you still send and receive holiday cards?
Is this tradition fading or holding strong in your household?
Take the poll to put in your two cents — then stay tuned for the final results in an upcoming newsletter. Want to know our takes? Keep scrolling.
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The Kentucky Supreme Court voted this week to reverse a 2024 decision limiting the power of the JCPS school board. The board will now take more ownership over day-to-day operations from the superintendent + be able to meet more than once each month. (Courier Journal
Today Is
Ugly Sweater Day, a chance to wear your most... interesting item of clothing. Check out a local vintage or thrift store for a chunky knit or a Lebowski. That means you not only get to get in on the head-turning fun, but you can support local business in the process.
Holiday
Sunday, Dec. 21 is the winter solstice and the beginning of Yule. It marks the shortest day of the year, but also means that the days are getting gradually longer. Look forward to a 7:56 a.m. sunrise on Monday.
Gallery
Funny animals have long been internet favorites. Now, there’s an award for them. Over 10,000 entries were submitted for the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards, with these 16 snaps chosen as the best. You can hone your photography skills at a local park, and maybe you’ll be among next year’s winners. (Business Insider)
Eat
Reader’s Digest released a list of the most popular chain restaurants in each state, and Dave’s Hot Chicken took the No. 1 spot in Florida. We’re always down for a box of sliders and fries, but Lakeland is also home to a strong lineup of locally owned spots worth supporting.
Travel
Want to make sure your holiday travel takes off without a hitch? Check out our guide to the Muhammad Ali International Airport for a full food rundown + to find out just how early you should arrive to get through security. Bon voyage.
Fun Fact
Did you know LOUtoday has dozens of sister newsletters across the US? Each one delivers local news, restaurant picks, and hidden gems just like we do. Next time you’re headed out of town, find your destination’s newsletter and explore our recs to plan your trip.
Trivia
Calling all historians, APUSH students, and know-it-alls. Have you put your knowledge of US trivia to the test by taking our dang-near-impossible quiz? Go ahead and try to get a perfect score, we dare you.
Pets
Your dog’s wagging tail hides more than love — it hides a world of genetic information. Uncover their ancestry, genetic traits, and potential health risks with 50% off Basepaws Dog DNA Test, now on sale for the holidays.* Shop
Nirvana awaits with this multi-shape vibrator that hits all the right spots. Reignite the fire of your most electrifying encounters with sublime sensations that intensify arousal. Get 35% off this award-winner today + an extra 15% off with code H4PPY15.*
The Buy
The Buy team here. We’ve recommended a lot of items this year, from home organization staples to wardrobe must-haves. Here are the top-shopped products:
Ok LOU, here are my holiday hot takes: Real tree, but I have a fake now because my cats eat the real ones. Stay home on New Year’s Eve, especially with good friends. Decorations can stay up for a tasteful two weeks after the holiday. Eggnog is good, especially my best friend’s homemade vegan nog, made with squash. I sent my first holiday card ever this year!
I look forward to hearing your answers. I’ll report back with the popular opinion when the newsletter returns at the end of the month.
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