Rollerama!

Did you know roller skating is making a comeback? Actually, it’s been picking up momentum for more than ten years now. Thanks to 80s and 90s fashion trends gaining popularity for its uniqueness, so are

Did you know roller skating is making a comeback? Actually, it’s been picking up momentum for more than ten years now. Thanks to 80s and 90s fashion trends gaining popularity for its uniqueness, so are pastimes that were once popular in previous years.

popular comeback

In fact, after studying business trends, it has come to my understanding that this next generation of youth are pushing for unique experiences like roller-rinks, drive-in theaters, or outdoor movies. The reason? Millennials and Generation Z’ers are constantly looking for that picture that cannot be mass-produced or rehearsed, and local and small businesses can offer this. Therefore, you and I are seeing what is referred to as a “Small Business Revolution”. How exciting!

Thus, Rollerama is the place in town that will bring back sentimental memories of afterschool adventures, and provide children with a bonding experience that nowhere else in town can provide.

brief history

Built in 1967, Rollerama was the idea of local, Wayne Thompson after his children requested a family-friendly establishment to frequent. Like all kids, Wayne’s were eager to get out of the house, exhaust their energy, and bond with their friends. Luckily, the roller rink is open year-round.

Over fifty years later, Rollerama is still going strong! In fact, at the mention of featuring this local business as a wedding venue on my blog, every person exclaimed “I love the Rollerama!”, “One of the best places to go in town for good, clean fun”, or “I have so many memories from that place”.

nostalgia overload

A friend of mine had her 25th birthday party here, and I vividly recall going to an event for work here years ago. I still remember the scent of the hard wood floors, and the oil used to clean the roller skate bearings.

For being in business for over fifty years, Rollerama has an impressive 4.5 stars on Google and Facebook reviews. Many comments mention Rollerama’s commitment to integrity and their decision to remain almost unchanged since it opened years ago.

Many businesses decide to update and consider a complete restoration, believing they will attract new patrons by becoming more relevant. Rollerama has listened to its customers, and preserved the nostalgia of childhood memories.

plan your visit

Open skate sessions occur every Friday from 7:00 – 10:00 pm, and Saturday from 1:30 – 3:30 pm, and again from 7:00 – 10:00 pm. Private skate parties are usually scheduled nightly Monday through Thursday, 6:00 – 8:00 pm. During your skate session, there are instructors available all night. They are there to assist beginners, and to help you improve your form.

partnering with local businesses

Commonly, nearby schools hold fundraisers year-round throughout the week, as do local churches, organizations and clubs. I love that Rollerama works with local businesses, and invests time and effort into our community.

rental fees and catering

Personally, I would jump at a chance to attend a wedding reception here. I may not be the best at roller skating, but with the proper elbow and knee pads, I’m all in!

If you are wanting to plan an event here, you will need to notify Rollerama at least one to two weeks in advance. Rental fees differ for which day of the week you plan to have your party, and how many guests you’re expecting. Also, will you be covering the individual skate rental fees for each guest, or will you have them pay their own way?

You will also need to notify Rollerama if you plan to bring in your own caterer, or you could have the on-site kitchen prepare snacks for everyone attending. Keep in mind, Rollerama does not allow alcohol, so come early, enjoy your stay, then make your way to an after-hours party.

712-276-9500
4500 Stone Ave
Sioux City, Iowa 51106

check out their website

Finally, read up on more information regarding rink rules, in-line skate rentals, and the various school fundraisers they support via their website: http://www.rolleramaonline.com/index.html.

This is the final post in our wedding series. I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering new and unique businesses to have your wedding ceremony or reception!

Happy Planning!