Amusement rides are often associated with thrills, excitement, and fun. However, for Darren Janesky, the owner of Big Round Wheel Amusements, they offer much more than just an adrenaline rush. Amusement rides are powerful tools that can enhance brand experiences, creating lasting memories and forging deeper connections between brands and their audiences.

With years of experience in the amusement industry, Darren has seen firsthand how rides can go beyond entertainment and serve as integral elements in marketing campaigns, community engagement, and brand loyalty. In this blog, Darren explores how amusement rides are not just about the thrill—they are about creating unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the ride ends.

The Emotional Connection Between Rides and Brands

One of the most powerful aspects of amusement rides is their ability to create an emotional connection with attendees. Whether it’s the excitement of a Ferris wheel ride or the thrill of a roller coaster, amusement rides evoke emotions that are deeply tied to the brand they represent. For businesses looking to engage with their customers on a deeper level, amusement rides offer a unique opportunity to foster positive emotions and brand loyalty.

1. Creating Lasting Memories

When people visit amusement parks, they are not just seeking a thrilling experience—they are looking for something memorable. This is where rides become more than just entertainment; they become catalysts for unforgettable moments. A ride may be a fun diversion for a few minutes, but the memories it creates can last a lifetime.

For example, families might ride the Ferris wheel together, capturing pictures with the backdrop of the park’s logo. This moment becomes more than just a snapshot; it becomes a symbol of joy, togetherness, and the brand that provided the experience. In this way, amusement rides offer brands a chance to be embedded in the memories of their customers, strengthening their connection to the brand.

2. Tapping into Nostalgia

Amusement rides also have a nostalgic appeal. Many people associate theme parks and carnivals with fond childhood memories, which makes them especially potent tools for brand engagement. By incorporating amusement rides into their marketing strategy, businesses can tap into these powerful feelings of nostalgia, reminding customers of simpler times and positive emotions. This emotional connection can enhance brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.

Integrating Amusement Rides into Marketing Campaigns

Amusement rides are an effective tool for marketing because they have the ability to attract attention, engage people, and leave lasting impressions. For brands, this translates into higher visibility and increased customer engagement. From product launches to promotional events, rides can be a key part of a company’s marketing strategy.

1. Branding on the Move

When businesses incorporate amusement rides into their marketing, they are not just providing entertainment—they are offering an interactive way for customers to connect with the brand. Customized rides that feature a brand’s logo, colors, and messaging can create a visual and sensory experience that reinforces brand identity. This type of branding is particularly effective because it is not limited to traditional advertising channels like TV or print. Instead, it immerses customers in the brand experience.

For example, a company may create a ride that is designed around its product or service. This can help communicate the brand’s story in a fun and engaging way, making the marketing experience feel less like a commercial and more like an adventure. The excitement generated by the ride becomes associated with the brand, leaving customers with a positive and memorable impression.

2. Engaging Customers through Interactive Experiences

In today’s experience-driven economy, customers are looking for more than just products—they want experiences that they can engage with and share. Amusement rides are a natural fit for this desire. They allow customers to actively participate in the brand experience, rather than just passively consuming information.

For example, a brand may offer a special VIP experience where customers can interact with the ride, such as a behind-the-scenes look at the assembly or design process, or even create their own custom features for a ride. This level of interactivity not only strengthens the customer’s connection with the brand, but it also provides them with an experience they can share with others. Social media has made it easier than ever for customers to broadcast their experiences, and amusement rides offer an ideal setting for these moments to be captured and shared.

Creating Community Connections Through Amusement Rides

Beyond the immediate impact on brand recognition, amusement rides can also help build stronger community connections. For Darren, providing carnival rides to local communities is an essential part of his business philosophy. He recognizes that these events have the power to bring people together, create a sense of belonging, and foster a positive environment for brand interaction.

1. Local Engagement and Brand Trust

When a brand sponsors or offers amusement rides at local events, it demonstrates a commitment to the community. This kind of local engagement is especially valuable in building trust and loyalty. People tend to gravitate toward brands that they perceive as supporting their community, and offering rides at charity events, festivals, or public carnivals allows businesses to establish themselves as active, responsible participants in local life.

This type of community engagement can also lead to increased customer loyalty. When people associate a brand with positive experiences—such as a fun carnival day with their family—they are more likely to feel a connection to the brand, return to its products or services, and recommend the brand to others.

2. Creating Opportunities for Social Good

Amusement rides can also be leveraged for philanthropic purposes, giving back to those who may not otherwise have the means to attend such events. Darren often invites foster children and disadvantaged youth to enjoy free carnival experiences, which creates a powerful sense of social responsibility for the brand. This form of charitable engagement not only enhances the brand’s reputation but also contributes to a stronger, more connected community.

Conclusion

Amusement rides have the unique ability to transcend their role as simple forms of entertainment. When integrated thoughtfully into a brand’s marketing strategy, they can foster lasting memories, create emotional connections, and help businesses engage with their customers on a deeper level. By offering exciting, interactive experiences, amusement rides create meaningful brand experiences that go beyond the thrill. They serve as a vehicle for storytelling, community engagement, and even philanthropy, making them a valuable asset for any brand looking to connect with its audience in a memorable way.

For Darren Janesky and Big Round Wheel Amusements, the amusement ride experience is not just about excitement—it’s about creating moments that leave lasting impressions and contribute to a brand’s success in the long run.