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Shoppers flock to stores on ‘Panic Saturday’ ahead of Christmas

Posted at 3:09 PM, Dec 23, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-23 15:16:40-05

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla— It’s a mad dash right now for shoppers across the country needing to buy last minute gifts.

Retailers often refer to the Saturday before Christmas as "Super Saturday" or "Panic Saturday" - a day procrastinators hit the stores to find something special for the ones they love.

“This is the first year that I waited,” said shopper Destiny Williams.

Long lines and a crowded parking lot were just a few of the obstacles to scoring the perfect present.

“Definitely a panic here I would say that,” said Andrew Alvarenga.

Stores at the Palm Beach Outlet Mall have increased staff to keep up with the demand, along with implementing extended holiday hours.

“For me it’s more like a tradition, it’s better to do it at this time then any other time because you get better sales and more stuff,” said Isaiah Harvin.

Some people said they consider fighting through the large crowds to be therapeutic.

“It’s still the spirit of Christmas when you go and see the lights in a mall. It’s something, like a sentimental thing sometimes, to come outside, and we have fantastic weather so we are very lucky to be in Florida,” said Walter Alvarenga.