Nov. 19, 2021

Extra options for holiday shoppers can always be found at The Empire Mall, and this year is no exception.

Seasonal retailers have started to open, and almost all are scheduled to be up and running by Black Friday on Nov. 26.

Here’s a look at this year’s lineup:

Go! Calendar Go! Games

The annual calendar store is open in two locations: the common areas near Bath & Body Works and Macy’s.

Painted by Prairie

Located in the center court by Santa, the personalized ornament business has a new owner this year in Shelley Connelly.

Jaber Soul

This boutique has relocated from Minnesota Avenue to the mall for the holiday season and is open in the former My Pillow space across from Foot Locker, selling apparel and accessories.

Log Creations

This shop has opened in the former CJ Banks space across from shoe store Journeys.

It offers dog, cat, hunting and fishing themed items and handmade log furniture made in Minnesota.

Hickory Farms

The seasonal favorite opens today with a kiosk in front of the Buckle.

Corky’s Carved Signs

This retailer from Hill City opens next week, with a kiosk for custom signs between Candy Clubhouse and Westmoor Music.

Stacy’s Snow Shop

Pick up seasonal hats, mittens and scarves when this kiosk opens next week near the children’s play area.

Holyland Olive Wood

These olive wood creations will be for sale starting Nov. 26 in common space to the west of Santa.

Kozy Blankets

This returning retailer also opens Nov. 26 in the former Christopher & Banks space across from Bohme.

Northern Lights Art

The framed art business opens Nov. 27 in the former Payless space near JCPenney.

Selfie spots

There are holiday scenes throughout the mall that make good photo ops — especially this one near JCPenney accented with mistletoe.

Visit Santa

Santa and his photo experience have arrived at the mall. Here’s what to know:

• Reservations are encouraged. Make Santa reservations today by clicking here.
• Families may choose to sit with Santa or maintain social distance.
• Santa’s helpers will wear masks throughout the duration of each visit.

The Santa Photo Experience will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon t0 6 p.m. Sunday.

The Empire Mall also will host events with Santa this season including:

• Cookies and Cocoa With Santa – Saturday, Dec. 4, from 2 to 3 p.m.
• Caring Santa – Sunday, Dec. 5, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.