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FUNTASTIC RETURNS AS MANDEE’S FUNTASTIC!

By Rebecca Jaciuk, publisher of Macaroni Kid Downriver Detroit May 26, 2021

I know for myself (pre-pandemic) on days we needed to get out of the house I was able to take my little man to Funtastic in Woodhaven, MI. He absolutely loved it, a great way for him to burn off some energy. I was sad to hear they closed. But, it’s with great excitement to hear they are reopening as Mandee’s Funtastic Play Center, LLC! Read on to learn about an interview with new owner Mandee Gibson. An exact date of opening has not yet been announced but expect the date in June. 

For those of us that have heard or been to Funtastic in the past, is it the same? 

Mandee says “To an extent it is the same. We are offering the same safe and clean environment that everyone expects. We have taken extra steps as well to provide a sense of safety in Covid times. We have arranged party times on the weekend to allow for extra time after each party to ensure that each play area, cafe, party room etc will be cleaned and sanitized above and beyond the CDC recommendations. 

We will still offer open play, field trips, parties, etc but we are also planning on fun events to try and bring attention to our area. We have so many events planned to keep every one interested not only in the summer but through out the year. Themed days, characters coming, outdoor movie night, and much more is what we want to do to offer as fun family events through out the year.”

For those that have never heard of Mandee’s Funtastic, can you explain what it is?

Mandee says: “We are an indoor playground center catered to children (usually ages 0-8). Our facility offers a two story playscape with different obstacles through out it. There are monkey bars, an uneven floor, a small safe zip line, a tunnel, three slides, a rock wall, and so much more! We also have a large soft play area with a stage for kids to run and climb on. In the soft play area, we offer a lot of shapes for the kids to build with as well. We also have a designated area to which we refer to as the baby pond. It is their own little play area, within the soft play area, with shapes more their size. The baby pond is only for the smaller children, if parents choose to let their kids play in there, as all children are welcome to play through all the play areas. All of our play areas are all padded/netted to provide extra safety to all of our families.” 

What made you decide to open this venue?

Mandee says: “I worked here for many years before it was shut down because of Covid, and I have seen and made friends with the many families who have come to Funtastic to play. I've seen the joy it has brought kids, and adults, to come in and play. We were sadden to see Funtastic close down, and to hear all the kids in the community miss their friends that they have met here over the years. For the past fifteen months I have heard kids and their parents express to me that they miss the safe and clean place to bring their kids to play and run around and to release some energy. Kids need a place they can come to, to be able to run, jump, slide, climb, and mainly express themselves through imagination and play.”

What will your schedule look like?
Mandee says: “We will be open Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 9am-8pm, and Wednesday and Thursday 11am-8pm for open play. Wednesday and Thursday 9am to 11am we will be open for toddler time (two years of age and under only) Our weekends are reserved for private parties.”

Can you provide info for party information?

Mandee says: “Each of our party packages are catered for up to 16 children and run for 2 hours. Additional children and an extension of time are available for additional costs.  With each party package, 2 of our friendly and fun party hosts will be there to help you throughout your whole party. Our party hosts will do the set up and all the clean up. Our goal is to provide an easy, stress free party so you and your family enjoy your time and have fun. 

Party Packages:

Funtastic Party  $250*This party package is perfect for families who just want to utilize our Funtastic play areas and party room. With this package you can bring in your own decorations, party supplies, food, drinks, and anything else you made need to make your party amazing. 

Mantastico Party $300*Who doesn't want extra fun with their parties? With this party package you not only utilize our facility, but we help take care of some of the party responsibilities. Table covers, cake/cupcakes, cake plates, juices, and napkins are all provided. You pick the colors, and we will do the rest!

Mandabadozi Party $350*This package includes it all! With this package you get the same benefits from both of the other two party packages PLUS balloons, pizza, pizza plates, themed cake/cupcakes, a themed table cover for your gift table, themed banner and balloon. This party package let's us do all the work for you, all you have to do is pick your theme! 

*With all party packages, you are welcome to bring in any extra food or drink items. Please note that if you do bring in any extras, there are a few guidelines we must follow. When bringing in any food or drink items, we ask that you bring in any items you would need to serve them with; such as plates, forks, spoons, napkins, cups, etc. We do have these items in stock, and can provide for an additional costs. When shopping please keep in mind that the following items are not permitted at Mandee's Funtastic Play Center:•Alcohol/liquor•Peanuts (or anything that contains peanuts)•Confetti/glitter•Facepaint

Will you still have snacks, WiFi, etc?
Mandee says: “Yes! We have free wifi and a cafe. Our cafe will have drinks, snacks, and small meals. To keep all our friends, families, and staff safe, we do not allow outside food and drink, so our cafe will have something to cater to everyone.“

Do you have any events coming up?

Mandee says: “We are planning our Grand Opening Party now, we are unsure of the date as of now but know that it will be in June. We are so close and so super excited to see everyone!”

Where can our community connect with you?

Mandee says: “Other than calling, we have several ways to contact us. We have a website, Facebook, and an email. 

Phone: 734-692-3867

Address: 20372 Van Horn Rd, Woodhaven, MI 48183

Website: Mandeesfuntasticplaycenter.webnode.com

Facebook: Mandee's Funtastic Play Center LLC

email: mandeesfuntasticplaycenter@gmail.com

along with calling us, we check these outlets everyday.”