Do You Remember When You Could Buy VHS Tapes From McDonald’s?

Believe it or not, I still own some VHS tapes. And yes, before you ask, we have a VHS player too. We haven't used it in years, but I am a packrat, so we'll hang onto that thing for a while, I'm sure. You just never know when you may need one!

Remember When You Could Buy Movies at McDonald's?

One of my favorite nostalgic Facebook pages shared something that other day that triggered a memory of McDonald's that you may also share. A McMemory, if you will. Back in the early 90s, you could purchase a VHS tape for a special low price with your nuggets and fries.

McDonald's Holiday Film Fest

The McDonald's Holiday Film Fest was an annual event from 1991 to 1994. Some ads I've seen had movies listed for $5.99, $6.99, and $7.99 with the purchase of a large sandwich or extra-value combo meal. Some of the movies came with rebates for a couple of dollars off the purchase of other movies. Here is one of the commercials. Talk about a time machine! I remember watching this one on TV.

Retro McDonald's Counter Photos

And just look at those retro menu boards and display cases. Some of the movies included in these promotions were the Indiana Jones trilogy films, Babes in Toyland, Dances With Wolves, The Addams Family, and Back to the Future. For a full list, keep scrolling.

McDonald's Dances With Wolves Controversy

All of the tapes were marked with the McDonald's logo and a "not for resale" label. Apparently, there was a major controversy in 1992 with the Dances With Wolves promotion. Various VHS tape retailers were upset over the partnership between the fast food company and distributor Orion Home Video. Making this and other films available for such a low price at McDonald's meant retailers lost out on potential sales.

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Did you ever purchase one of the VHS tapes from McDonald's? Do you still have any of them in your collection?