Metallica Fans Converge on Hennepin Ave. Pop-Up Store for Exclusive Merchandise Finds

The store is a highlight of Metallica’s “Minneapolis Takeover” weekend, coinciding with their performances on Friday and Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium.

It felt like a blast from the past as hundreds of devoted Metallica fans flocked to downtown Minneapolis for a unique pop-up store experience, reminiscent of 1985 or 2018. Eight years ago, Metallica made history by inaugurating U.S. Bank Stadium with their first major concert, and now they’re returning for a massive two-night event this weekend.

Echoing their 2018 visit, Metallica has set up another exclusive store in downtown Minneapolis for fans to snag special merchandise. As a band with a 43-year history still drawing crowds to U.S. Bank Stadium for two nights, their fans range from longtime devotees to newcomers.

“I’m 17,” shared one enthusiastic shopper.

Fans have traveled from far and wide, eager to get their hands on exclusive items.

“I’m from Texas,” another fan mentioned. “I want everything—one of each. I’ve already picked up a Yeti and a t-shirt. The more I get, the more I want. I prefer buying my merch here to avoid long lines at the stadium.”

The pop-up store, located at 9th and Hennepin and marked by bright yellow Metallica signage, drew long lines even before it opened on Thursday morning. The store will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily through Sunday. Bill Stone, the Manager of Metallica’s North American pop-up stores, highlighted the exclusivity of the merchandise.

“Most items here are unique,” Stone said. “Only a few shirts will be available at the stadium.”

The stadium, U.S. Bank Stadium, will host Metallica for two special performances this weekend, part of their no-repeat concert series supporting their latest album, “72 Seasons.” The band’s journey has earned them a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and they’re bringing their signature energy to Minneapolis once more.

For some, finding the perfect item was easy.

“Limited edition stuff, city-specific items—like the Vikings purple and yellow vinyl—I had to get it,” a shopper told WCCO’s Ari Bergeron.

Others found the decision more challenging.

“Yeah, because I want everything—one of each,” said a young woman overwhelmed by choices.

The Metallica Takeover weekend includes additional events:

Bowling Takeover at Memory (Re) Lanes, featuring a Metallica cover band, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Details are available on Memory Lanes’ website.
The Black Album in Black & White with photographer Ross Halfin at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are required.
Bastardane & OTTTO live at Varsity Theater, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are required.
Metallica Film Fest at Riverview Theater, beginning at 11 a.m., featuring classic Metallica films. Tickets are required.
Metallica Takeover at Smash Park in Roseville, featuring free axe throwing and a Metallica Name That Tune event, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. This event is free.

The weekend is a major rock extravaganza, with thousands converging on Minneapolis. Besides Metallica, other major acts in town include Def Leppard, Journey, Green Day, Smashing Pumpkins, and Hozier, all performing at Target Center around the Metallica shows.

Horns up, Twin Cities!

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Metallica M72 Minneapolis 2024 In Minnesota Pop Up Shop Poster At US Bank Stadium On August 16 And 18 2024 M72 North American Tour The Satan Artwork Home Decor Poster Canvas