Toys R Us has an official opening date for its Broadway Square Mall location in Tyler: Friday, November 6. A reporter stopped by the mall and confirmed the date with the district manager while construction crews were still arranging displays and merchandise inside the storefront. That means East Texas families get a new toy shopping option just as the holiday season kicks into gear.

One detail worth knowing before opening weekend: this location is smaller than the Toys R Us stores many shoppers remember from childhood. The chain’s comeback format scales down the classic big-box experience, but for local families it also means a shorter drive than heading into the metroplex for holiday toy runs.

The return lands at a good moment for Broadway Square Mall and for parents working through Christmas lists early this year. Expect opening weekend to draw a crowd from across the region, especially with the nostalgia factor running high. Will you be there on day one, or are you waiting for the rush to settle down?