IKEA Opens in Charlotte!

Yeah!!!!! We now have our own IKEA store - the only one between DC and Atlanta. People have camped out for the last three days hoping to be amongst the first few to receive a free IKEA chair. These shoppers were obviously experienced at waiting in line, as they came equipped with tents, heaters, sleeping bags and grills! A steady rain began about midnight and the temperature dropped, testing the mettle of those in line.

The situation is intense this morning, as reported in this news story By: News 14 Carolina Web Staff

"CHARLOTTE – The new IKEA store in the Queen City is open for business.

A long line formed as eager shoppers got ready for the opening, while Charlotte Department of Transportation officials prepared for conditions much like those seen on (NASCAR) race days.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are directing traffic at major intersections, and are advising people who haven’t already left for the grand opening to consider waiting a few hours to do so due to the extreme traffic conditions.

For those who will be attending the grand opening, drivers are advised to use Interstate 85 to get to the City Boulevard exit instead of North Tryon Street."

We don't plan to visit until next week when crowds have thinned a bit. We've had just one IKEA experience - last July in Minneapolis. My dh loved the furniture and kitchen gadgets; I went for the Marimekko fabrics and chocolate - divine! Thank goodness dark chocolate is good for the heart!