Long lines and chaos at Crossgates Mall as the new Build-A-Bear “Pay Your Age" deal was launched Thursday.

The store was forced to turn away dozens of families -- some of whom waited up to five hours because of the huge crowds.

People were supposed to be able to buy a bear for the dollar amount that matches your kid's age.  And with a steal like that -- some couldn't contain their excitement.

The Build-A-Bear Workshop cited "safety concerns" at several nationwide locations as the reason to turn people away.

It's not likely that the promotion will be brought back any time soon for those who were turned away.