HOUSTON – Black Friday or as some like to call it, the Shopping Olympics is almost here. It is truly the kickoff to the holiday shopping season.
In years past, it was all about waking up early to get the door buster deals, but this year the best deals will be had for those who stay up late.
Black Friday has turned into Black Thursday.
Toys R Us and Wal-Mart will open their doors on Thanksgiving Day at 9 p.m. Target, Macy's, Best Buy, Kohl's and stores at Houston Premium Outlets will open at midnight, Nov. 25.
"It's never too early to shop for your kids, I guess, and to save some money too," said Houston shopper Ashton Griffin.
Last year, Black Friday sales totaled $11.8 billion. This year, retailers are hoping with earlier shopping hours more people will come out and spend.
But not everyone is excited.
"It's crazy. Too early for me. Let's have a day for the family and leave Thanksgiving alone," said shopper Mandy Diaz.
Target spokeswoman Molly Snyder said the decision to open earlier is due to consumer desire.
"We have heard from our guests that they want to shop Target following their Thanksgiving celebrations rather than only having the option of getting up in the middle of the night," said Snyder.