OVIEDO, Fla. – Following two vehicle break-ins that affected a business and a viral TikTok trend that left the Regal movie theater with minor damages, the Oviedo Mall announced this week that it is bringing back the “Mall Rat Club.”
The initiative is aimed at teens aged 13-17 and works to offer them a safe and fun way to hang out at the mall while bringing together members of the Oviedo community.
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It has been reintroduced as an alternative attempt to combat the recent issues instead of a chaperone policy.
The teen program will officially start on May 1.
It was originally introduced in 2023 but was placed on a pause due to management changes.
Now, Josh Gunderson, director of marketing and events for the mal, hopes it will bring a new light to the community.
“The last thing we want to do is implement a curfew or chaperone policy. We’ve tried to be very clear about how hard we’re working to avoid that, which is why we have made such heartfelt appeals to our community,” Gunderson said.
The Mall Rat Club gives teens access to exclusive discounts, events and experiences throughout the mall. Enrollment requires a parent or guardian to be present for membership card pickup, during which both the teen and parent sign Oviedo Mall’s Code of Conduct, which reinforces mutual respect and accountability.
Club activities include:
- Free photography lessons
- Yoga and wellness classes
- Cooking classes
- A young adult book club
- Mall scavenger hunts and pop-up events
- And more coming this summer!
The mall’s newly renovated movie theater suffered damage linked to a viral TikTok challenge. The trend led to yelling, throwing objects and property destruction, further straining mall resources.
Parents can visit the mall’s website to learn more about the program.
Membership cards will be available for pick up in the mall management office beginning Thursday May 1 and cards can be picked up Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and during select mall events.
For kids under 12, the Oviedo Mall also offers the Kid Crew Program, which includes seasonal activities, character appearances and family-friendly events year-round.
Is it free?
“Yes! Both the Teen Club and our Kid Crew program are completely free to join. Most of the events and activities we offer will also be free, and if there is ever a cost involved, it will be minimal.”
How do you plan to appeal to the teens who are focused on social media?
“Oviedo Mall offers so many unique spaces and activities that naturally lend themselves to content creation—whether it’s a dance workshop, a painting class, or a hands-on cooking demo. We’re leaning into those moments, creating experiences teens will want to share with their audience while discovering new passions and having fun."
What about teens who think that teen clubs could be considered “lame or boring?”
“We know not every teen is going to love every activity, which is why we’re offering a wide variety of experiences—from photography and yoga to book clubs and gaming nights. There’s something for everyone. We might not win everyone over, but we think they’ll be missing out on a pretty great time."
How long do you plan to keep the program around for?
“As long as teens are still interested and engaged, we want this program to stick around. Like our Kid Crew, we hope it becomes a lasting part of what makes Oviedo Mall a community hub.”
Have you seen the teen program work before?
“Yes! When we launched the Mall Rat Club in 2023, we had an amazing response. Many of those original members still visit the mall regularly and continue to take advantage of their discounts. We’re excited to build on that success and keep growing.”
