The Basement Celebrates Opening of New Event Venue on Main Street

Chamber ambassadors, community members, and guests gathered for the grand opening as the crowd counted down to the official ribbon cutting, marking the launch of a new space designed to bring people together for celebrations, meetings, and live events.

“This morning we’re at the hottest new venue in downtown Batesville,” said Amanda Roberts, Membership Engagement Specialist with the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. “There’s a great crowd here ready to have a great time. The Basement is exactly the kind of place that adds energy and excitement to our downtown.”

Owned and operated by Jeri Turner, The Basement is a flexible venue available for private rentals and special events including birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, meetings, and community gatherings. Turner says the project reflects months of hard work and a passion for creating meaningful experiences in Batesville.

“The Basement was built with lots of hard work and a lot of love,” Turner said. “We want this to be a place where people can come together to celebrate, connect, and have fun. Whether it’s a private event or one of our ticketed gatherings, we hope it becomes a space the community enjoys.”

The venue’s opening event featured a lively Ladies Brunch Sing-Along, inspired by the growing trend of brunch sing-along experiences in cities like Nashville. The event drew a full house of guests who enjoyed music, food, and community connection.

Located below street level in downtown Batesville, The Basement blends the charm of a hidden venue with the vibrant energy of the city’s Entertainment District. With plans to host both private rentals and public ticketed events, the venue offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.

Across the country, communities are increasingly recognizing the value of unique event spaces as catalysts for downtown vitality. By hosting weddings, reunions, parties, and live entertainment, venues like The Basement help drive local spending while strengthening the social fabric of the community.

“The addition of venues like The Basement enhances the vibrancy of downtown Batesville,” Roberts said. “When people gather for events and celebrations, it creates opportunities for local businesses and adds to the experience that makes our community such a special place to visit and live.”

The Basement is located at 359 E. Main Street in downtown Batesville, next to The Ex Salon and Boutique. The venue is available for private rentals and will also host ticketed events throughout the year. For more information or to follow upcoming events, contact The Basement at 870-612-7045 or jeri.turner@yahoo.com, or follow them on Facebook.

Chamber ambassadors in attendance included Abigail Ballard (Lifeplus), Crystal Kimmer (White River Health), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Campbell (Batesville School District), Michael Dickinson (City of Batesville), Sarah Perkins (Mossy Oak Properties), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).