Anticipation continues to build as the new Hobby Lobby in Apple Valley inches closer to opening. The store recently received items and posted a “coming soon” banner.
Over the last week, several semi-trucks have offloaded shipping containers with items, including shopping carts, to the new Hobby Lobby located behind El Pollo Loco on Bear Valley Road.
The new retail building includes a Five Below, sandwiched between the Hobby Lobby and Marshall’s, at the Apple Valley Towne Center.
Over the last week, Hobby Lobby management and staff have been seen inside the store, which includes the shopping carts and new shelving. One unidentified employee outside Hobby Lobby told the Daily Press, “We’ve been training, working, getting ready to open.”
Meanwhile, dozens of customers, including entire families with children and strollers, have been seen parking, exiting their vehicles and trying to enter the unopened Hobby Lobby.
“With all the cars here, I thought the store was open,” Hesperia resident Claudia Gallegos told the Daily Press. “I hope they open soon.”
Inside the adjacent Five Below, shelves, illuminated signs, check-out counters and other items could be seen. A handful of employees have also been seen working inside the store. On the east end of the building, lights continue to illuminate the Marshall’s unit, which remains empty.
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The three retailers have not confirmed opening dates, but based on the work completed, Five Below might open first, followed by Hobby Lobby.
Construction of the retail property near Bear Valley Road and Westmont Drive was completed earlier this year, with each store mostly sitting empty until April, when Southern California Edison arrived and completed work.
Town of Apple Valley spokesperson Sarah Krieg told the Daily Press in April 2026 that the retail center was currently awaiting final utility connections to bring power to the site.
Krieg added that once power is established, the tenants can proceed with opening.
The stores were originally expected to open in early 2026, according to the town.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.
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This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Shopping carts, items arrive at unopened Hobby Lobby in Apple Valley
Reporting by Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
