By Rodd Cayton
It’s not just another birthday trip to the mall — this time, it’s the mall’s birthday. This weekend, Cottonwood Mall is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a party Friday, three decades to the day the shopping center opened its doors. On July 31, 1996, Albuquerque’s Westside finally had a regional level mall.
“The mall grew our city’s economy, and gave Westside residents a place to belong at every stage of their lives,” according to a news release announcing the event. The party will start with a 2 p.m. ribbon cutting, with business leaders and dignitaries including State Rep. Cynthia Borrego expected to give remarks. Afterward, guests will be treated to live Mariachi music from 3 to 5 p.m., with gift card giveaways throughout that time.
Saturday and Sunday, the release notes, is New Mexico’s annual back-to-school gross receipts tax holiday, when certain clothing, computers, and school supplies purchased at participating retailers are not subject to the tax.
Those shopping at the mall between noon and 2 p.m. will find a DJ, local artists doing live painting, artists helping students customize their backpacks, and a $500 back-to-school shopping spree giveaway.
Cottonwood Mall is at 10000 Coors Bypass NW.