Build-A-Bear Workshop and Sanrio®? announced the national expansion of the Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop with new locations set to open at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, in early 2026. The first Build-A-Bear & Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop opened in Los Angeles last year and quickly became a go-to destination for collectors, families, and devoted Sanrio fans.
Its strong appeal made it clear that the experience deserve a broader presence, especially in places that draw millions of visitors from around the world. Both American Dream, just outside New York City, and Mall of America, one of the most visited retail and entertainment destinations in the United States, offer the kind of scale and visibility that make them ideal homes for this next phase of growth. Each Build-A- Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop immerses guests in the world of Hello Kitty, with signature toys from both brands throughout, including pink shopping bags and aprons, custom Cub Condos, and more.
Guests choose their favorite character, take part in the iconic stuffing experience and signature Heart Ceremony, then personalize their new friend with themed outfits, scents, sounds, and accessories inspired by Hello Kitty,innamoroll??, Kuromi??, My Melody??, and the whole crew. These new Workshops continue to expand the one-of-a-kind Build-A-Bear xHello Kitty and Friends experience to fans across the country. For generations who grew up with Build-A-Bear's heart and Hello Kitty's bow, this is where nostalgia meets new memories by always adding a little more heart to life.
