On August 24-26, we held our first ever hybrid format of our popular Amusement 360 Event in Indianapolis, IN.

In accordance with the changing landscape of post-COVID events, this Amusement 360 featured in-person and virtual ticket options to accommodate attendees who were able to travel, and those who could not make the journey. More than 60 existing and aspiring entertainment operators gathered in Indianapolis for the in-person event, while hundreds more tuned in virtually.

Over the 3 days, 19 industry experts shared their knowledge with attendees during 20 education sessions. During the second day, the sessions were split into 2 tracks; 1 focusing on existing entertainment businesses and 1 centered on new startups. This dual-track format allowed us to bring in more guest speakers so attendees could “choose their own adventure” and find the topics most relevant to their businesses.

In addition to industry-focused topics covering finance, operations, strategy, food & beverage, and staffing, this 360 Event had a special focus helping operators grow personally with two special keynote presentations.

The first keynote, with transformation coach Mark Keene, inspired attendees to create massive growth in their life by taking back their power. The second keynote by FBI-trained hostage negotiator Scott Harvey helped business leaders to communicate effectively while building trust and rapport with staff and customers.

After about a year without in-person events, attendees, partners, speakers, experts, and our staff were overjoyed to socialize in person again. Scheduled networking breaks throughout the event allowed everyone to learn and share stories again after such a long hiatus.

The energy in the room was contagious and sparked new thoughts and ideas. “I loved the reinvigoration that I feel after being here and the energy from being around like-minded people. I am more ready than ever to be ‘All In,’” commented in-person attendee Paul Johnson.

During the first evening of the event, attendees got to tour our Theme Factory to see how the company builds their immersive attractions. During the tour, our staff members talked about their roles in creating lifelong memories, while also fielding questions from the attendees. On the second night of the event, everyone traveled to Woodland Bowl for a night of food, drinks, games, and fun.

During a time when so many business operators are feeling swamped by the everyday issues, those who were able to get away for a few days to attend the event walked away feeling excited and refreshed.

“In the day-to-day work of running your business, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose sight of ‘why’ you’re in the business you’re in. Amusement 360 is an opportunity to learn, engage and rediscover your passion and your ‘why.’ You leave excited to get back to working on your business,” commented in-person attendee Jay Mrozek.

The 360 Event (formerly known as LaserTAG360) celebrated its 10th year anniversary this summer. The event has experienced incredible growth over the years. What started as a small event inside a small conference room with a handful of people has grown into a visually stunning display that features state-of-the-art audio and video technology.

Even with the successful return of the in-person event with a virtual component, we are relentlessly focused on improving the event in every way possible moving forward. “This first hybrid event was a smashing success,” commented Danny Gruening, our VP of Marketing. “But we’re already setting plans to make our next Amusement 360 even better.”

The next Amusement 360 Event is scheduled for February 8-10, 2022 in Indianapolis, IN.