Grand Opening Of New Mall On Fort Bliss

A first-of-its kind shopping center will be having it’s grand opening next weekend on Fort Bliss.

Freedom Crossing is the world’s first open-air shopping center on a military post. It will serve as the heart of the military neighborhood, providing both shopping and entertainment. It will have the latest popular retail offerings from local and national retailers.

In addition to new shops and restaurants, there will be a rain forest themed children’s play area, an interactive fountain and an outdoor fireplace.

The new mall will also feature a 10-screen movie theater which will show new movies – something rare on a military installation. The Grand Theatre will have high back rocking chairs, digital projection and 3D technology.

Mike Howard, COO of the Army Airforce Exchange Service, spoke with ABC-7 about the benefits of this new shopping and entertainment center.

“It allows us to hire an additional 900 people and it offers a lifestyle environment we’ve never been able to do before. Because of the population here we are able to do that for the Fort Bliss and El Paso community in general,” said Howard.

And keeping the saying “Everything is bigger in Texas” true, the new expanded post exchange will be the biggest in the world.

Shops and restaurants to be in the new center include Buffalo Wild Wings, Smashburger, Sarku Japan, Junga Juice, Arby’s, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Gamestop and Val Verde.

The official opening is Nov. 5-6 with multiple celebrity appearances and a number of various events.

November 5: Celebrate What’s New Block Party All Day: Special, Surprise guests, entertainment on the promenade 9:00 a.m. Ribbon cutting Entertainment all day on the Promenade 5-7 p.m.: Meet Alyssa Milano 7 p.m.: Free concert featuring Overton Road

November 6: Celebrate What’s New Family Fair 11 a.m. Unveiling of Children’s Play Area 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Family fair featuring balloon artists, face painters, princesses, and more. TBA: Meet DJ Pauly D from Jersey Shore

The civilian public can visit the Grand Theatre as well as restaurants but can’t shop at retail stores. For a pass to get on to the post, visit www.bliss.army.mil and click on the “Newcomers” tab and clicking on “E-pass” under the “Welcome” sub-menu.

For more information about the mall, you can visit www.freedomcrossingatfortbliss.com.