Yes, it is open, and there are still over forty retailers/shops open for business inside.
A few updates:
- LensCrafters is currently open but will be closing on April 28th. The store will be relocating to a brand new location at rio.
- Claire’s is currently open but will be closing by the end of the month. Claire’s will be relocating to the former site of Grog’s Beer and Wine, located between AT&T and Ashley Furniture Homestore in Gaithersburg Square.
- Metro by T-Mobile did not reopen after Jose Maldonado, an employee at the store, was stabbed to death inside of the mall on February 21. A Rockville man has been arrested for the unprovoked murder.
- Hakky Shoe Repair closed at the beginning of this month after 33 years in business.
- Rita’s Italian Ice’s closed in March.
Latest redevelopment update: WRS Inc., the real estate investment firm based out of South Carolina that purchased the “core” of Lakeforest Mall back in 2019, purchased the mall’s four anchor sites at the beginning of March. Redevelopment of the mall could not begin until all four owners of the anchor stores, and the owner of the mall’s core, came to an agreement, which has stalled potential redevelopment of the mall for years. The four anchor sites (Sears, JC Penney, Lord & Taylor and Macy’s) and their parking lots were not included in the 2019 purchase. Of the four anchor stores, only Macy’s remains open. Additional details here.
Below is a list of what was open, and a few photos, from when we stopped by on April 5th at 11AM:
Food/Beverage:
- Charly’s Philly Steaks
- Kelly’s Cajun Grill
- Nori Japan
- Pollo Campero (the chain is opening a new location at the former site of KFC on 355 in Gaithersburg, it is unknown at this time if this location will remain open)
Lower Level:
- 777 Foot Spa
- Aeropostale
- Allure Jewelers (store closing signs on windows)
- Bath & Bodyworks
- Beautiful U (eyebrows, waxing)
- Best Medicine Rx (theater group)
- Cell Fix (kiosk)
- Central Newsstand
- Champs Sports
- Finish Line (shoes)
- French Perfume
- Home Décor & More
- Jackson Hewitt (likely only open during tax season)
- The Jewel Box (kiosk)
- Photo Forever
- Phone Repair Lab (kiosk)
- Rainbow (clothing)
- Spencer Gifts
- Test America
- Time Out Zone I & II (mini arcades)
- Z Planet
- Walden Jewelers
Upper Level:
- AmeriGo (car and RV rentals)
- Braiding Center
- Charile Fashions (clothing)
- Claire’s (closing soon)
- Class Act (prom dresses)
- Essie Allen (clothing)
- JW Event Center (party rentals)
- Lens Crafters (closing soon)
- Macy’s / Macy’s Backstagre
- Melashops
- New Passion Nail Spa
- So What Else (food and resource charity)
- Style One (closed when we stopped by but appears to still be in business)
- TMobile
- Trade My Cell
- USI: United Security Incorporated
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!