BLINK Festival Brings New Open Container Rules to Covington
COVINGTON, Ky. — The BLINK festival is back in Covington, introducing an exciting entertainment destination center that’s expected to attract visitors from as far as Boston and New York.
New Open Container Policy
This year, festival attendees can purchase alcohol from a curated list of local businesses and stroll through Madison Avenue, West Pike Street, Park Place, and more. Smoke Justis, among others, is gearing up for what may be their busiest weekend yet, with manager JR Bernasco expressing both excitement and readiness for the influx of visitors.
“We’re going to have little set-up bars outside so people can come and get a drink, walk around, see all the sights,” Bernasco said, highlighting the benefits of the new open container rules.
Attendee Reactions
First-time attendee Corbin Copeland views this change as a positive step. “It’s a good way to get everybody to be able to get out of the bar, see more of the art, and participate more,” he said.
Concerns from Local Business Owners
However, the open container policy isn’t welcomed by everyone. Augur, the owner of Hierophany & Hedge, raised concerns about the family-friendly nature of the event, saying, “It seems a little out of place for people who need to be carrying their beer around.”
Participating Businesses
BLINK attendees can enjoy their drinks from special cups provided by several local bars and restaurants, including:
- Agave & Rye
- Braxton Brewing Company
- Carmelo’s Restaurant
- Covington Yard
- dEcORa
- Dice on Draft
- FrostHaus
- The Globe
- The Hannaford
- Knowledge Bar and Social Room
- KungFood Amerasia
- Revival Vintage Bottle Shop and Bar
- Ripple Wine Bar
- Smoke Justis
- The Well
- Up There
- Wabi Sabi
- Wenzel Distillery
For more details about the festival’s layout and any road closures, you can find a comprehensive map here.
With both excitement and some reservations, Covington prepares to welcome a diverse crowd for this year’s BLINK festival.
