UPDATE (WKOW) -- Cars were lined up outside the first Wisconsin IKEA early Wednesday morning ahead of the grand opening.
The parking lot opened at 5 a.m.
The store was expecting 10,000 people to check out the facility. Shuttles are being provided from nearby parking areas to help ease traffic issues that are sure to arise.
Police were seen directing traffic for the event Wednesday morning.
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OAK CREEK (WKOW) -- IKEA lovers, rejoice! The chain's first location in Wisconsin, in Oak Creek, will open its doors Wednesday, May 16.
Customers are welcome to start lining up at 5 a.m., but the store won't open until 9 a.m., according to a press release. There will be entertainment for guests starting at 8 a.m. and a grand opening ceremony at 8:15 a.m..
The first 1,000 adults will get a welcome gift and the first 200 children, 12 and younger, will get a free toy. People in line before 8 a.m. will be entered for a chance to win three gift cards valued at $500, $1,500 and $2,000.
Customers will receive a free, iconic blue bag with their purchase. Guests can win gift cards and other prizes throughout the day and there will be special deals throughout the store. Visitors who join IKEA FAMILY or scan their card in store will be entered to win one of 22 $250 IKEA gift cards, and receive special coupons.
Swedish ambassadors will join Wisconsin officials and company leaders to celebrate the new store and its Swedish heritage. The grand opening ceremony will conclude with traditional Swedish log-sawing, said to bring good luck to the new store and its guests.
The new IKEA will also have entertainment for children over the weekend, including balloon artists and face painting, to continue welcoming the community into the store.
For more on this story: http://www.wkow.com/story/38198277/2018/05/15/ikea-to-open-in-oak-creek-wednesday