The clock is ticking to knock out your holiday shopping.
While many stores are starting their deals earlier and earlier, shoppers still enjoy the excitement of Black Friday.
1:30 Friday morning, die-hard deal hunters began camping out at the Acadiana Mall.
Hours later, shoppers scrambled through the doors hoping to get a free gift card.
“We’re just here for the gift cards. Claire’s, PacSun, shoes and we’re looking to get a bunch of great deals,” said Amber Pharris.
This year, the mall was closed on Thanksgiving.
“It’s just better. People get to spend time with their families and it gives our retailers a chance to have some down time,” said Acadiana Mall Marketing Director Jamie Stelly.
“Every year, it started getting earlier and earlier. The deals are still great and you can’t miss them,” said Pharris.
Stelly believes with the mall waiting to open on Black Friday, it helps to build excitement.
“I think it’s awesome! It’s the best time of the year and kicks off the holiday shopping season,” Stelly said. “We’re pumped. The crowd is fun, they’re ready to shop and spend money.”
While lots of stores are seeing green, one group of shoppers say you can’t spend everything today.
“Gotta save a little bit for the next week.”
The group drew a lot of attention with their “Straight Out of Money” t-shirts.
“People laugh and say them too when they see us.”
For many families, Black Friday is a tradition and they vow you can’t beat the incentives at the stores.
“This is me and my husband’s time to get all of our gifts for our kids. It’s a lot of fun,” said Amanda Randazzo.
If you didn’t brave the stores before the sun came up, shoppers say you’re missing out.
“You should have come earlier. You snooze, you lose. You have to come here early if you want the good deals. You can’t be late,” said Pharris.
The deals are expected to continue rolling in throughout the holiday season. Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday are coming up.
