The nation’s largest mall bucks a big trend

In a bold stand, Mall of America will be closed on turkey day this year.



The mall, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, has been open for business on the holiday for the past four years. The 5.6 million-sq.-ft. mall has more than 520 stores and restaurants, and a number of attractions.



“In years past we’ve all rallied together to answer the call for 24/7 shopper access that the Thanksgiving/Black Friday weekend brings.”



Mall of America executive VP Rich Hoge and senior VP of marketing, Jill Renslow stated in a letter sent to Mall of America employees and tenants Wednesday morning. “However, it also meant that team members may not have been able to share the day with family and friends. That is why this year we have made the decision to close on Thanksgiving Day so that team members can put that energy where it matters most, into making memories with the people they care about most.”



Mall management acknowledged that some tenants may choose to be open on Thanksgiving, and that it have security and other key personnel on duty to ensure smooth operations. Two attractions that definitely not be open on the holiday are the mall’s movie theatre and popular Nickelodeon Universe amusement park. Both are owned by the mall.



Mall of America will officially re-open on 5 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, with a special “door opening ceremony” at the north entrance. The area will be transformed into a virtual North Pole complete with a visit from Santa and his elves, surprise gifts, special musical performances, and more.