Image Gallery: Nordstrom Rack opens at Middlesex Commons

Thursday September 8th was no ordinary day for shopping enthusiasts in Burlington. It was the opening of a new Nordstrom Rack at the Middlesex Commons Mall near .

Patch photographer Sue Bruce arrived just before 8 a.m., and was ninth person in line. The first person, showing true dedication, had been waiting since 4.30 a.m.

Shoppers filled in entries to win a $2000 / 90 second dash around the new store before the doors officially opened.  The drawing was won by a young lady who was greeted enthusiastically by staff waiting inside.

Catering was provided by Roxy's Grilled Cheese and Kick-Ass Cupcakes and umbrella's were handed out so shoppers could get hot coffee and breakfast without getting too wet.

As the opening time neared, managers asked trivia questions and handed out a few $10 gift cards.  

By the time the doors opened, the line of umbrella's stretched all the way back to the Market Basket down the street.  Although many shopper had hopes of 'opening day specials', there were no unique deals to speak of - although a store assistant did say they had special pricing on many items since they were a new store.

Waiting in line for the opening was nearly as entertaining as the shopping itself. There was some very grumpy shoppers in line who were prepared to fight with anyone who came near their space.

Nordstrom Rack is the "off-price division" of Nordstrom, Inc, and carries merchandise from Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com at 50 to 60 percent off the original price, according to Nordstrom, Inc. The first Rack opened in Seattle in 1972 and there are now 95 locations in 28 states. 

Nordstrom Rack offers brand-name apparel, accessories, shoes, bath and beauty products and items for home decoration. They have petite and plus sizes in most locations and new merchandise arrives daily. Gift certificates and in-store alterations are also available.