How You Can Support Ann Arbor Entertainment Venues During the Pandemic
Many local businesses have been hit hard by COVID-19. But not many have been hit harder than our local entertainment centers and venues, like concert houses, music venues, bowling alleys, movie theaters, mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, arcades and more. These are the type of businesses that are most likely to be shut down during a pandemic—and are usually the last ones to bounce back afterward.
While entertainment centers are now allowed to open—with strict social distancing measures in place—many are still trying to recover from the devastation 2020 left in its wake. That’s why today, we’re listing a few ways you can support these types of businesses right now. We’ve also included a few specific examples of local businesses that could use your support. Let us know how you plan to support local entertainment businesses this year, in the comments below!
Utilize any online or curbside resources
Photo courtesy of Decode
Purchase gift certificates
Thanks to technology, there are some practical ways we can support the many small businesses in Ann Arbor even when we have to stay home. One of our favorites, especially when it comes to entertainment venues, is buying gift cards or gift certificates! Now that we’re in the 21st century, buying gift certificates from local businesses is as easy as a few clicks of a mouse. And the best part? You can actually use them later! Just save those certificates for when things finally go back to normal and use them for a fun night out on the town.
The Zap Zone is a Southeast Michigan favorite for laser tag, glow golf, go-karts, bumper cars, bounce houses, arcade games, bowling, roller skating and more! They are currently open to the public—with masks and social distancing required—but if you’d rather support them from the sidelines, they offer the option to purchase gift certificates online, which you can use for a future visit.
We can’t think of a better way to spend our time than racing around the track at JD Racing. This adrenaline park is a family pastime, offering fun for racers 7 years old and older. They are currently open for socially distanced fun (you can book some time online) but if you’d rather stay home and wait to hit the track, you can also purchase gift cards online to help support JD Racing in the meantime.
Many local businesses and nonprofits are hurting right now. Because of the lack of business and several statewide closures, it’s been hard to rack up enough funds to stay afloat. That’s why several local entertainment venues have set up ways for you to donate online. While you may not get any physical items for your donation, you will get the satisfaction of knowing you helped a local business get back on their feet.
Pinball Pete’s, a beloved Ann Arbor arcade, set up a GoFundMe account during the holidays to help offset the loss of profits during the pandemic. Anything helps, but anyone who donates over $75 will receive a Pinball Pete’s t-shirt, while supplies last. Click here to donate!
Kidopolis Studios is a small family business, providing a unique atmosphere that provides entertainment and enrichment to young children’s lives. They recently set up a GoFundMe page, allowing you to donate to them directly to help support them during this difficult time. They will also be using the funds to create new spaces for children to explore. Click here to learn more and donate!
An intimate 110 seat venue, Kerrytown Concert House is a nonprofit organization focused on community engagement and providing audiences with fine art, from live music to gallery exhibitions. They are currently only offering virtual concerts which you can attend for free! But if you want to support them financially, they are also accepting direct donations on their website.
Located in Chelsea, The Purple Rose Theatre Company was founded in 1991 by Chelsea native and critically-acclaimed actor, Jeff Daniels. The building that houses the company’s Garage Theatre was once a used car and bus garage owned by Daniels’ grandfather. Now, the facility has developed into one of the best places for theatre production in the state. They aren’t currently hosting any shows, but are accepting online donations to help the show go on! Click here for more information.
These days, one of the best free ways to support a local business is to boost their reputation online! Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more. Leave glowing reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook and other reviewing websites. And don’t forget to tell your friends and family how much you love your favorite businesses whenever you get a chance. These little things may not seem like a lot, but one comment or review can make all the difference to someone trying to decide if they want to patronize a business or not.
What about you?
How are you supporting your favorite entertainment centers during this difficult time? Let us know in the comments below!