GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - The wait is finally over. The Grand Junction Cabela's at Mesa Mall has officially opened.

Thousands turned out for the store's ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday afternoon. Some arrived more than three hours beforehand to get their spot in line. Others even busted out their grills and tailgated in the Mesa Mall parking lot.

"I've done 27 of these openings and this one was really special," says John Castillo, spokesman for Cabela's.

Thursday was the first of a 12-day grand opening celebration, which will include giveaways, contests, meet 'n' greets with the founders of Cabela's, and the chance to win a log cabin.

The 70,000 square foot store features an indoor archery range, a gun library, animal exhibits and fountains, and a fudge shop.