Compass Entertainment Center could safely be called “Happening Central” and now that the weather has warmed, activities gear up.
A 5K run in April benefited Lancaster County first responders. When monthly live music shows are scheduled outside this summer, the Compass Eats food truck will be on-site and serving barbecued pulled pork in sliders and tacos, as well as barbecued chicken. The grass field beside Meridian will be the site of a big car show in June. “We’re trying to get our name out there,” Vanover says. “Our goal is to develop more ties with the local community, more reasons for them to come by in addition to seeing a movie.”
Several birthday party packages are available and can be planned for ages from 3 to 16 years old. Packages include food—hot dogs, chicken tenders or pizza—drinks, housemade cupcakes, arcade games and attractions. A Party Pro works with guests to ensure that all needs are met, and the party is a success for everyone involved. “Our Party Pro gets the group immediate access to games and activities,” says Tyler Wright, guest services manager. “They handle everything, so the party unfolds without a hitch.”
Businesses can rent out the entire Compass Complex property for company appreciation nights, team building or meetings. Individual theaters can be rented so patrons can screen the movie of their choice. “We also offer small-scale packages for groups of 20 to 25 for timed play at the arcade,” says Greg Picon, general manager at Compass. “We can put together custom packages for school, groups or fundraising.”
The “Live at the Met” opera series runs from November through May and is wildly popular, frequently selling out in advance. Ticket holders can order an intermission snack of an hors d’oeuvre and a glass of red, white or bubbly, delivered by a tuxedo-clad staff member. “The hors d’oeuvre ties into the opera’s place of origin,” says Chase Reynolds, Cinema 6 manager. “The Met screenings have really grown in popularity.”
There are reasons to head to Compass all year, including an Easter egg hunt and picture taking with the Easter bunny. For Father’s Day, there’s a mini-golf tournament. A home run competition at the batting cages celebrates baseball season. Halloween honors the haunted house theme with an adventure zone. Holiday lights go up in December and for the screening of “Polar Express” Sheriff Patrick McCranie dresses as the Polar Express conductor. Tuesday nights are popular because movies are only $8, a deal that’s tough to pass up.
Between bumper cars, a ropes course, go-karts, a climbing wall, a challenge zone and kids’ zone, there’s no shortage of things to do at Compass. It’s important to know that closed-toe shoes are required, so leave the flip-flops, sandals and Crocs at home. Activities are pay-as-you-play, or a Fun Pass can be purchased and loaded with credits for attractions and arcade games. Buying a Fun Pass in advance provides discount pricing on attractions or arcade games.
Reel Rewards, a new two-tier loyalty program launched in March, provides rewards for every dollar spent on movies, which can then be redeemed for tickets and vouchers. For $9.99 a month, the Film Fanatic level is worth two free movie tickets a month. New combos and pricing at the concession stand have been well received, saving guests from having to buy concessions at separate prices. Because, after all, what’s a movie without candy and popcorn?
Compass Entertainment Complex | 100 Entertainment Drive, Irvington I 804-884-4FUN | compassentertainmentcomplex.com
