Dave & Buster’s is turning up the volume on its entertainment strategy.
The arcade and sports bar chain has partnered with Southern California event promoter Brownies & Lemonade to announce a new rave series that will bring electronic dance music events to select locations across the U.S. later this year.
The series, dubbed “Rave & Buster’s USA Tour,” is based on a concept the two companies began testing several years ago, KTLA reports. Organizers say the event will feature surprise guest headliners and a multi-genre lineup spanning bass, house, trap, dubstep, UK garage and more, turning Dave & Buster’s venue into a late-night dance destination.
The tour is the latest step in the company’s broader efforts to expand beyond its traditional reputation as a destination for arcade games, sports viewing and family celebrations. In recent years, Dave & Buster’s has introduced new food and beverage offerings, interactive entertainment experiences, and ticketed nightlife events aimed at attracting customers outside of its core customer base.
Where will Rave & Buster’s USA tour go?
According to Brownies & Lemonade, the tour will kick off in Honolulu on July 30th, followed by stops in the following cities:
- August 26: Denver
- August 27: Dallas
- September 30: Brooklyn, New York
- October 1st: Orlando, Florida
- October 31: Irvine, California (Halloween)
- December 30: Milpitas, California
Brownies & Lemonade said the expanded tour follows the success of its “DNBNL” events held at Dave & Buster’s stores over the past few years. Promoters said fans are requesting additional artists, more music genres and events in more cities.
How to get tickets
Advance ticket sales began on Wednesday, July 15 at 10 a.m. local time. General ticket sales will begin on Thursday, July 16th at 10am local time.
Brownies & Lemonade is also running a social media giveaway of free passes to select tour stops. To purchase tickets, visit https://laylo.com/browniesandlemonade/m/cGafzQ.
Dave & Buster’s expands beyond arcade games
Dave & Busters first experimented with a rave event in 2023, holding a sold-out show at Los Angeles’ Hollywood & Highland store. The concept has since expanded to other markets, including Washington, Texas, Arizona, New York and Florida, Slate reported.
The company also launched D&B Unlocked, a platform where guests can find and purchase tickets to events such as karaoke nights, themed bingo happy hours, and live entertainment. Company executives said the goal is to increase traffic during the off-season while giving customers more reasons to visit.
Dave & Buster’s is also investing heavily in its food and beverage operations. Last year, the company continued to expand its appeal beyond arcade games, bringing back customer favorites and introducing a revamped menu featuring dozens of new dishes and drinks.
Customers looking for a store near them can use the store locator on the Dave & Buster website.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.
