Valrico Chick-Fil-A Prepares For Opening Day

VALRICO, FL — As the operators of Valrico’s new Chick-fil-A location prepare for their grand opening next Thursday, they’re also putting together a few surprises for those who plan to camp out to be among the first to sample the fare.

“With a year supply of Chick-fil-A being awarded to the first 100 in line at Valrico’s first Chick-fil-A restaurant opening Jan. 26, campers are expected to fill the parking lot the day before,” a statement about the opening said. “Not only will the first 100 receive a year supply, but also they will have the opportunity while camping out Wednesday to improve their lives as well as others in the community.”

Paul and Tammy Holmberg, operators of the new 2010 Bloomingdale Ave. location, have lined up several activities to keep campers busy while they await the opening. A 30-minute Zumba class will take place on the site Wednesday along with drum lessons from 1 to 2 p.m. Campers will be asked to help pitch in to prepare 10,000 meals for Feed Children Everywhere from 2 to 2:45 p.m. Wednesday.

The Holmbergs are also asking the first 100 guests in line and other restaurant customers to give to a children’s book drive to benefit the Campo YMCA’s literacy program. They are asking for new and gently used book donations during the entire opening week.

As for those free meals for a year, they’re being offered to the first 100 eligible guests in line when the doors open around 6 a.m. Jan. 26. The prize entitles holders to 52 meals consisting of a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, medium waffle potato fries and a medium drink. Should more than 100 eligible guests be in line, a random selection will take place.

“Those chosen will be required to camp out until the grand opening in order to secure their spot,” the statement noted. Eligible guests must be 18 or older from specific ZIP codes in the area. To check ZIP code eligibility, visit Chick-fil-A online.

“My team members and I can’t wait to welcome guests to our Valrico restaurant,” Paul Holmberg said. “We’re not just in the chicken business — we’re in the people business. Our goal is to provide a remarkable experience for every customer, every time, by serving food our guests can truly feel good about eating and providing sincere hospitality.”

Once open, the 5,300-square-foot eatery will serve guests from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Like all other restaurants in the chain, it will be closed on Sundays. The location also features a two-story indoor play area for kids and free Wi-Fi.

The new Valrico location is the 22nd in a 25-mile radius.

Photo courtesy of Chick-fil-A