WHAT: Originating in Japan about 150 years ago, Kendama is a wooden skill toy that consists of three separate pieces of wood and is assembled into the final product with friction and a string. It includes three cups and a spike which fits into the hole of the ball that is connected to the string.

The 2017 MKO features players from over 31 states and 11 countries all competing head-to-head for the championship. Players can compete in Beginner, Intermediate or Open brackets. Advanced players will compete alongside the Pros in the Open Bracket for the title of MKO champion.

The Minnesota Kendama 2017 open will also host the first ever Girls Division this year.

Sweets Kendama, is a custom Kendama company based out of Bloomington, MN that hand-paints, assembles and packages every Sweets Kendama.

For more information on the 2017 Minnesota Kendama Open, visit mallofamerica.com/events

VISUALS: International Pro and local Kendama Players competing head-to-head for the title of Minnesota Kendama Open Champion

WHEN: Saturday, October 28, 2017

Check in: 9 a.m.

Competition: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday, October 29, 2017

Check in: 10 a.m.
Competition: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Mall of America – Rotunda

About Mall of America®

Mall of America (MOA) is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in North America. At 5.6 million square feet, MOA boasts more than 520 world-class retail stores and restaurants; Nickelodeon Universe, the nation’s largest indoor family theme park featuring 27 rides; SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, home to sharks, sting rays and an amazing underwater tunnel; FlyOver America a 4D immersive flight adventure; Crayola Experience; Rainforest Cafe; Hard Rock Café; the nation’s longest indoor zip line and an 18-hole mini golf course.

The Mall, a top American tourist and vacation destination, opened in August of 1992 and is located in Bloomington, Minn., just minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul and adjacent to the MSP International Airport. Mall of America hosts more than 400 events annually, including concerts, book signings, celebrity meet-and-greets and community-focused cultural events. The Mall is also home to a 500-room Radisson Blu hotel, a 342-room JW Marriott hotel; office tower; grand entrance and more. Follow Mall of America on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and visit our blog. Download the Mall of America app from the App Store for iOS or Google Play for Android.