Ross Park Mall, a beloved fixture in Pittsburgh's North Hills, is turning 40 years old. This milestone is a testament to the mall's enduring appeal and the changing landscape of retail. What makes this anniversary particularly fascinating is the mall's grand opening in 1986, which was a spectacle of high-tech design and entertainment. The mall's developer, Melvin Simon, boasted about the mall's innovative features, such as its high-tech, stainless steel design and pop-out fronts, which were considered stunning at the time.
One of the most memorable aspects of the opening was the "Star Wars" theme, complete with balloons, lasers, confetti, and Disney characters. The event attracted a huge crowd, with people coming from three states to witness the massive mall that encompassed over 1 million square feet of shops. The mall featured major retailers of the era, such as Kaufmann's, Waldenbooks, Camelot Music, and Barbara Moss.
The mall's opening was a significant event, with actor James Brolin making an appearance on the ABC hit series "Hotel." The mall's success was evident in the positive reactions from shoppers, who praised the mall's beauty and the much-needed stores it offered.
Today, the mall continues to thrive, even though the stores have changed over the years. The mall's enduring appeal is a testament to its ability to adapt to the changing retail landscape. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Ross Park Mall is hosting a "Carnaval-inspired" celebration with live music, performances from dancers and aerialists, and a look back at how much the mall and fashion trends have changed over the years.
The celebration is a reminder of the mall's rich history and its impact on the community. It also highlights the mall's ability to evolve and remain relevant over the years. As the mall continues to celebrate its 40th anniversary, it is a testament to the power of innovation, community, and the enduring appeal of retail.
