Lake Square Mall recently celebrated its 45th anniversary this year, marking more than four decades as a community gathering place in Lake County.

The mall, which first opened its doors in 1980, has undergone a revitalization in recent years, drawing new events, entertainment and vendors that have helped breathe new life into the once-struggling shopping center.

Local leaders and property managers say the momentum is part of a broader vision to keep the mall relevant for future generations. The mall survived the recession, both anchor stores going bankrupt and COVID. They even survived Seminole Town Center Mall’s reign in Sanford and eventual closure. While all of that has happened, Lake Square Mall has endured and is one of the few malls in America experiencing continued growth.

(Lake Square Mall recently celebrated 45 years of operation.)

Over the years, Lake Square Mall has been a retail anchor in Leesburg, weathering this changing landscape of brick-and-mortar shopping. In recent years, it has shifted focus toward community-driven events, specialty vendors, and unique experiences, from themed haunted houses to artisan markets, entertainment and local shops which have helped stabilize the mall and allow it to continue operations.

(The mall has been through many iterations. Many remember when Target was once a tenant. This photo is circa 1992 from Orlando Sentinel. Sears and JC Penny have also come and gone but the mall continued to thrive.)

This month, the mall is hosting seasonal attractions such as The Vaudeville Hotel Haunted House, a new immersive experience running Fridays and Saturdays through Halloween. A Farmers & Artisan Market, debuting Oct. 10, will spotlight local vendors on select Fridays. Later in the month, the mall will welcome families for its 5th Annual Halloween Fest featuring cosplay contests, collectible vendors and appearances by characters like Scooby Doo and Shaggy. You can learn more on their website here. 

(Joshua Blake is the director of entertainment at Lake Square Mall. He’s been a huge asset bringing events and revenue to the mall over the years. His haunted house is one of the top in the area each year.)

While the festivities showcase how the mall continues to serve as a hub for local events, mall officials say the long-term vision includes more ambitious redevelopment. Plans for mixed-use development, blending retail with dining, entertainment, and possibly residential spaces are being discussed as part of efforts to reimagine the property’s role in a growing Lake County.

One thing is for certain, Lake Square Mall has helped employ thousands over the years. It’s been there through the best of times and the worst of times. Congratulations on serving the Lake County community for 45 years strong!