Andrea Jameson
ContributingWriter
ajameson1@murraystate.edu
Murray’s Dairy Queen had its annual grand opening on Monday, March 1. The seasonal Dairy Queen has been operating in Murray since 1949, but because of the impact of COVID-19 their system of operation has changed.
The restaurant is open between March 1 and Oct. 31 each year. Since 1949, they have gained positive reviews by bringing sugar-lovers sweet and icy treats every year.
According to reviews on Facebook, customers have called Murray’s Dairy Queen the place to be at. The store is most loved for its footlongs and Blizzards that keep loyal customers waiting in line for more.
Since the 2020 March opening, the fan-favorite ice cream stop has had to make some changes because of the coronavirus.
“Due to COVID, we are car hopping in the parking lot as we are trying to live up to the regulations,” manager Misty Long said.
Despite the new format, Dairy Queen still drew a traditionally large crowd for its grand opening. Instead of a long line out front, cars parked in the back and a worker came to car windows to take orders.
“We offer the normal treat menu and local hotdog and chili dog menus,” Long said.
As of last year, Dairy Queen is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The hours changed because of COVID-19 regulations. Dairy Queen will be open on weekends as well, though hours may differ.
In order to fulfill social distancing and masking guidelines, workers will be wearing masks and, it is important for customers to wear a mask as well while a worker takes their order.
“Out of respect for each other, most people see us walk up to their cars with our masks on to take their orders and we expect everyone to follow the same procedures,” Long said.
Long said they follow strict guidelines to keep everyone safe in order to best serve the community.
“We go through the grand-opening every year, just like any other store opening for the first time of the year,“ Long said. “We enjoy seeing everyone and look forward to seeing them every season.”
The Murray Dairy Queen is located on 1303 Main Street. Customers are encouraged to find a parking spot in the rear parking lot and wait for a worker to come and get their order.