For those who miss rummaging through aisles of VHS tapes on weekends before the age of streaming and DVDs, rejoice! Bucket Listers and SWARM, credited with successful events in Miami including the Wynwood Marketplace, are set to launch a unique ’90s inspired pop-up event. From March 8 to April 28, Miami locals will be treated to a nostalgic immersive experience at Wynwood Marketplace. Aptly named “Back 2 The Video Store: A ’90s Speakeasy Bar”, this unique event will charm attendees with neon lights, lava lamps, vintage arcade games, and a huge collection of VHS tapes showcasing popular movies and TV shows of the ’90s. “We aim to recreate the enchantment of the ’90s, providing a space where people can relive their favorite era,” says Bucket Listers’ Head of Experiences Derek Berry. “As soon as you step inside, you’ll find yourself in a nostalgic-themed setting offering themed drinks and live DJ sets, creating a cozy atmosphere similar to stepping into a time machine.”
Click to enlarge Invite your friends to this classic video store-themed bar. Courtesy of Bucket Listers Not just keeping to the video store theme in terms of decor, they also offer a vintage cocktail list for an authentic speakeasy feel. Upon arrival, guests receive an old-school membership card serving as their drink ticket. As attendees browse through the collection of VHS tapes available “for rent,” they will find their cocktail options inspired by iconic ’90s and early ’00s film releases. The cocktail menu includes drinks like the vodka-based “Mean Girls” cocktail and the “Men in Black” featuring Ube, spiced rum, cachaça, lime, and pineapple juice. Other movie-themed cocktails on the list are “Toy Story,” “Karate Kid,” “Indiana Jones,” “Jaws,” “Happy Gilmore,” and “Halo”. The back of each cassette serves as the cocktail’s menu, rather than providing a movie synopsis, and once you’ve made your selection, a “Videotender” prepares your drink.
Click to enlarge The video store themed-pop up offers several photo ops. Courtesy of Bucket Listers General admission gives guests access to exchange one drink ticket for a cocktail or mocktail of their choice. Rates start at $22 for a 90-minute visit. If guests wish to settle the ’90s vs ’00s movie debate, try the Blockbuster-inspired brunch at the venue offering tickets at $45 per person, including a main course and unlimited mimosas within a time slot of 90 minutes. Brunch options range from breakfast quesadillas, tostadas, steak and eggs, huevos rancheros, burritos to chilaquiles. Guest can also enjoy a ’90s disco night with the “Video Killed the Radio Star” DJ party ticket, starting at $28 per person, including a welcome cocktail and opportunity to dance for four hours to the biggest hits of the era. “A lot of thought has gone into each detail of this experience, from decor to menu options,” comments Berry. “Our aim is to spark nostalgia while introducing the younger generations to the magic of the ’90s”. The Back 2 The Video Store: A ’90s Speakeasy Bar located at 2250 NW Second Ave., Miami will run from Friday, March 8 to Sunday, April 28. Tickets can be bought at www.bucketlisters.com.