The Free Blockbuster stand in Crescent Hill has a section for adult and kids films. | Photo via @free.blockbuster.crescent.hill
Ever find yourself longing for a Friday night trip to pick up new-to-you VHS tapes and candy at the Blockbuster down the street? Us, too. While it can’t bring back the iconic smell of stepping inside a store, a movement called Free Blockbuster might just scratch that film rental itch.
Similar to Little Free Libraries, Free Blockbuster locations provide a space to leave and borrow DVDs and VHS tapes, often in old newspaper stands.
A quick history
Be kind, rewind — all the way back to 2018, when a former Blockbuster employee in California thought of a way to revitalize old LA Times newspaper dispensers. The very first Free Blockbuster appeared in early 2019, and the movement has spread across the world since then.
Find them in Louisville
There are two known locations in Derby City, according to Free Blockbuster’s franchise map, but you can also use the map to explore Free Blockbusters everywhere — from Lexington, KY to the UK.
Laissez les bons temps rouler at the Opera Rhapsody Gala
Presented by Kentucky Opera
Don’t miss your opportunity to dress up, share a meal, and toast champagne with Kentucky Opera. | Photo provided by Kentucky Opera
Mark your calendars:A Night in New Orleans at the Opera Rhapsody Gala is happening on Friday, Feb. 20.
You’re invited to a night of performances, music, and culinary delights culminating in a live auction, all benefiting the Kentucky Opera. Don’t miss a special performance from members of the Youth Opera Project as well as a sneak peek of the opera’s 2026-2027 season.
Gather your friends and snag tickets to an unforgettable evening supporting the opera.
National Coffee Break Day, a reminder to partake in one of the country’s favorite pastimes: stepping away from your desk to grab a cup of joe. Fortunately, Derby City has no shortage of choice — we’re eyeing Heine Brothers’ Toasted Hazelnut Tumbled Espresso.
Mailbag
This just in from ReaderPlamena D. — “Our favorite restaurant is Havana Rumba (insane steak chimichurri + maduros).” Give Plamena’s recommendation a try before reading up on restaurants coming soon to Derby City.
Active
The hype is building for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and plans are already falling into place for the next Summer Games. Ticket registration is open for Los Angeles 2028, with one-third of tickets set to cost under $100. Get in the spirit by reading up on Olympians who have represented Louisville in previous years. (Los Angeles Times)
Plan Ahead
Did you know that a Dolly Parton showis coming to Louisville this month? If you answered “no,” we’ve got an exciting resource for you — our monthly Plan Ahead, a list of some of the biggest events to plan for each month. You’ll never be out of the loop again.
Eat
We all know that Louisville’s signature dish is the hot brown. But did you know our neighbors down in Bowling Green are known for salt-rising bread? Explore more local dishes around the world with the Taste Atlas.
Sports
Have lots of thoughts about the Cards, but nobody to chat with? Think of Locked On’s daily podcasts like hanging out with local experts of the Louisville Cardinals — they’ll talk game analysis, insights, interviews, and more.
Edu
Considering grad school to help advance your career? Join the UofL College of Business for a quick virtual info session and explore flexible seated + online programs starting in January or August. Sessions happen every Friday at noon — bring your questions and discover the next step in your education journey. Register here.*
Looking for a pilates, yoga, or fitness studio that gets you moving in 2026? Get one month free of ClassPass and build your perfect workout routine — balance weight lifting with meditation, or HIIT with hot yoga, all under one membership. Hurry, offer available for a limited time only.*
Editor’s Pick
You can’t end a full day of vegan eats without non-dairy ice cream from Dairy Del. | Photo by Dairy Del
Anyone else participating in Veganuary? The 31-day challenge encourages people to try eating vegan throughout the month. As a meatless eater year-round, I know a thing or two about what’s worth a try — here’s where I’d go to spend a day eating vegan in LOU.
Breakfast: “The Veggie” with vegan cream cheese at Cold Smoke Bagels — for vegan newbies, cream cheese substitutes tend to be better than their sliced or shredded counterparts
Dinner: Grab a meal that’s vegan by happenstance (aka no fake meats, eggs, or cheeses) at Queen of Sheba — Misir wot is my go-to Ethiopian dish
The Buy
We sifted through thousands of Nordstrom Rack deals to bring you five you don’t want to miss. Add them to your cart before they’re gone.
🛍️ Score these rarely-on-sale UGG slippers that are marked down to under $100.
🛍️ Take up to $100 off this cozy longline cardigan with an attached scarf.
🛍️ Get over 50% off this buttery-soft bralette with zero wires, elastic, or seams.
🛍️ Stun in this versatile cowl neck satin blouse that’s on sale for under $30.
🛍️ Don’t miss these top-rated flare leggings that are over 70% off.
Consider this your friendly reminder that Valentine’s Day is less than a month away, and restaurant reservations tend to go quickly. If you’re really hoping to pack a punch this year, check out these mini matrimony ceremonies being hosted at theFrazier Kentucky History Museum.
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