Meridian residents, crafters and hobbyists came out to the Meridian Crossroads shopping center Saturday morning to celebrate the opening of a new Michaels location.

The grand opening and ribbon cutting event featured food trucks, kettle corn and entertainment from the Meridian High School band and cheerleaders, as well as comments from local officials.

City Councilman George Thomas said it is always a good day when new businesses come to town, and he thanked Michaels for choosing Meridian for its newest store.

“On behalf of the city, we’re delighted to have this store opening here in Meridian” he said.

Beyond supplying the Queen City’s creative community with needed crafting supplies, Thomas said Michaels will also impact the economy by generating new jobs and giving residents an opportunity to buy local.

Based on the line of shoppers queued up outside the store prior to opening Saturday, Thomas said he believed Meridian’s residents were happy to see Michaels open as well.

Michaels Store Manager Paul Pearman said the store staff were also excited for the grand opening celebration and ready to welcome the community into the new store.

“We’re just excited to have the community come out and see our new store,” he said.

Pearman said Michaels will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. The store is located in the Meridian Crossroads shopping center next to Ulta Beauty.

“We’re pleased to be a part of the community, and Michaels is looking forward to serving the customers,” Pearman said.