Halloween stores open with interactive exhibits
It’s officially a sign that summer is winding down: Seasonal Halloween retailers have started to open.
Spirit Halloween is leasing 13,000 square feet in the former Younkers at The Empire Mall for the second consecutive year. There’s an entrance from inside the mall as well as outside the mall – which includes a short trip through the vacant former department store space.
Shoppers will find a broad selection of costumes, décor and other accessories.
There’s also a “Spirit Aquarium” exhibit in the store, encouraging visitors to walk through a dark tunnel where they find a haunted aquarium inside.
Another exhibit called “Reaper’s Wharf” continues the theme.
The plan ultimately is still to locate Dillard’s in the space, as a sign promoting the retailer coming remains outside the interior mall entrance.
Spirit Halloween’s hours are the same as The Empire Mall.
Competitor Halloween Express also is taking vacant space in the 41st Street area.
It occupies two storefronts at the Gilrich Village retail center at 41stand Grange Avenue.
You’ll find floor-to-ceiling costumes for all ages, masks and other Halloween accessories.
There’s also a darkened separate space dubbed the “fun house freak show” where visitors can activate moving Halloween figures.
Hours for Halloween Express are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
