Toys R Us and other retailers open early

Black Friday started Thursday night

HOUSTON – The doors at the Toys R Us store on Westheimer opened precisely at 8 p.m. Thursday night and the holiday shopping season officially kicked off. 

But for the shoppers it all started a few hours earlier because many of them waited in line outside. 

"I've been here since 6 o'clock," said Sam Gastineau.  He's doing it all for his 2 year old daughter, he said he wants to give her a good Christmas. "That's the first thing she comes first!."

Most of the shoppers agree that battling crowds and staying up late is worth it when you can buy an item for your child that you normally couldn't afford. 

"I'm here because this is going to be my son's first Christmas," said Pamela Leonard.

Toys R Us stores had their 'Doorbusters Sale' that started at 8 p.m. on Thursday and runs until they close on Friday. 

The popular items this year were a 19" LED TV for $99 and diapers were $10 off.

"I'm here for diapers and wipes," said Alton Flores.  "They're $10 off and you always need wipes."