Halloween party marks new venue debut

For the first time since the building at 3211 S. Shirley Ave. stopped being a church, it will host a crowd this weekend. Vibes Bar & Event Center opens Saturday, October 31, with two free public events: a trading card show and a Halloween costume party.

The venue is located in a space that sits on the corner of Shirley Avenue and 41st Street. Kevin Tupy, a co-owner, notes that the site benefits from proximity to The Empire Mall and major retailers like McDonald’s. Raising Cane’s is scheduled to open next month, which Tupy expects will increase foot traffic and visibility for the new business. The Tupys have co-owned the building with Matt Paulson for at least ten years.

Tupy and his wife, Delena, decided to convert the space into a multi-use event center. Delena suggested targeting a capacity range that could handle various group sizes. The venue features multiple rooms that can accommodate groups from 50 to 75 people, as well as larger spaces for up to 500 attendees. The total occupancy for the entire facility is approximately 800 people.

The space underwent a light renovation that included new paint and flooring. Tupy described the original layout as well-suited for events. A second phase of construction is planned to add a kitchen, a patio, and an expanded bar menu. For now, the bar will hold a full liquor license and serve snacks and small bites. A casino featuring video lottery is also part of the initial offering. The location will be open to the public daily from 10 a.m. until close.

Food will initially be sourced from Lucky’s on Louise Avenue, which Tupy noted has a full kitchen. Attendees are also permitted to bring in outside food and cater their own meals. The venue is intended for weddings, corporate meetings, concerts, and reunions.

The opening day schedule begins at 10 a.m. with the Great Plains Trick or Trade trading card show. Admission is free, and the event runs until 5 p.m. Vendors will sell cards and distribute candy, while food trucks are stationed on the lot. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes and bring bags for the candy.

A Halloween costume party follows at 7 p.m. and continues until 11 p.m. This event also carries no admission cost. A DJ will provide music, and drinks will be available for purchase from the bar.