Eat ‘n Park
OK here we go, Round 2 of Classic Christmas Commercials! Now in truth I’ve never been to an Eat ‘n Park (a Restaurant chain located in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia). Actually, the first time I’d even heard of one was through this commercial on YouTube! In fact I’m not even sure I get it, shouldn’t it be Park and THEN Eat?? Nevertheless, I have to compliment them on a truly sweet and inspirational commercial. It really represents what the holidays mean to me, a chance to have my spirits “lifted” during difficult times. I admit I am occasionally prone to depression. Doubting myself, worrying about things, walking past the same old store windows everyday.
But during the holidays, suddenly those windows are lit up with bright lights, idyllic winter vignettes and the reflection of the consumers’ delighted expressions. Nearby a Salvation Army worker rings a bell, offering you the opportunity to make a difference for the less fortunate. And suddenly my problems don’t seem so insurmountable. I think that’s why holidays are so important, they serve as a welcome “lift” from reality and a reminder to think beyond ourselves. 
P.S. OK I just found out why it’s called Eat ‘n Park, as opposed to Park ‘n Eat. According to their official website:
“Logically, a customer parked first then ate — either in or out of the restaurant. However, in the late 1940′s, “Park & Eat” was as common a sight as “Drive Thru” is today and could not be copyrighted.”
Well, now I’ve learned something new! Aren’t the holidays great? ;D
Posted by kirinjirafa on December 10, 2011 at 6:03 pm
Awww… memories. I grew up in PA in a mildly depressed neighborhood where Eat N Park was our splurge place. It’s like Denny’s, only with really great cookies. I remember seeing this commercial too. *sigh
Posted by herald7 on December 10, 2011 at 6:24 pm
Thanks for responding! It’s amazing what a big part older commercials have in our memories, particularly around the holidays.