BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — The thousands of dedicated Black Friday shoppers who line up early along the sidewalks at Mall of America (MOA) each season are in for a special holiday throwback treat this year.
Bringing doorbuster deals back into the spotlight, MOA plans to up the ante on giveaways, totaling more than $100,000 in prizes for shoppers this year.
The first 200 people at the mall's doors, when they open at 7 a.m., will receive a $25 gift card, while one of them, the WONDEROUS WONKA WINNER, will also come away with a $2,500 gift card, courtesy of the film "Wonka."
The first 4,000 shoppers will also receive an MOA "Mystery Card," which carries an array of possible prizes, including mall retailers' merchandise. New this year, MOA said the big winners will be directed to its "Doorbuster Zone" where guests will physically have to break through an an actual door for their prizes worth between $250 and $600.
“To bring back the doorbuster excitement, we created a one-of-a-kind Black Friday activation with must-have prizes that guests have to see to believe," said Jill Renslow, chief business development and marketing officer at Mall of America, in a statement. "Watching the fun and magic of the season come to life at Mall of America is amazing, as our visitors light up with joy from our beautiful décor, festive events, and best-in-class shopping."
In addition to deals, prizes and giveaways, MOA will continue its tradition of offering entertainment throughout the weekend, hosting Friday morning's live broadcast from KFAN — which will also join in the holiday spirit by giving away a trip for two to see the Vikings play in Las Vegas. The mall will also showcase live music by Bells2Go, SM6 and the Johnnie Brown Experience.
MOA is closed on Thanksgiving Day, and will open again for Black Friday shopping Friday, Nov. 24 at 7 a.m.
For a full list of the mall's holiday shopping hours, visit its website.
For more information about shopping, giveaways and entertainment, click here.
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