NOTE: The above video is from a 2021 segment covering the Mascot Hall of Fame.
WHITING, Ind. — Get ready for a "Grand Fur-nale" from the hallowed hall of mascots.
The Mascot Hall of Fame, located in Whiting, Ind., announced on social media Monday that they will close for good on Sept. 14 after over five years of business.
"We have had the pleasure of sharing in hundreds of your special days and birthdays," the HOF wrote. "We've had thousands and thousands of students visit for field trips. We've been able to fill gaps in the community with free and reduced programs, food banks, blood drives, backpack giveaways, sensory days, reading programs, and so much more. It has been an honor."
Established in 2005 by David Raymond - the original Phillie Phanatic - the Hall of Fame annually honors the best of the best among college and pro sports mascots.
To be eligible, a mascot must have existed for a minimum of 10 years and have had an impact on their sports community.
Indiana has two mascots that have been inducted into the Hall: the Indianapolis Colts' mascot Blue and the Indiana Pacers' mascot Boomer.
The HOF officially opened a building in Lake County in 2018 to house the mascot history after making a deal with the City of Whiting. The STEAM-based educational museum gave visitors an insight into what it takes to be a mascot and honored the history of the best sports mascot.
In its announcement, the HOF said that the legacy will continue with mascots being inducted online. The HOF also said that organizers will soon begin looking for another permanent location for the Hall.
Now, the HOF is hosting a going-away event on Sept. 14 to celebrate the history.
"Let's not be sad, let's celebrate our years at the MHOF," the post read. "Because just closing our doors would be boring....so, come to the MHOF on September 14th and celebrate 5 years of community, camaraderie, and confetti!"
The Mascot HOF said that more information about the event will be released in the future.