CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Malls across the country and in the Carolinas were packed with people picking up last-minute gifts on Christmas Eve.
According to the National Retail Federation, more than 100 million people waited until the week before Christmas to do their holiday shopping, with more than 6% doing it on Christmas Eve.
Last-minute shoppers shuffled in and out of stores at the Charlotte Premium Outlets all day Tuesday.
"Some of them are coming out just looking for last-minute deals, and some people are doing all of their shopping. It’s personal preference," said Sharon Campbell, manager of the outlets.
It was a waiting game in the parking lot, and it’s been that way since the weekend. With Christmas falling on a Wednesday, the general manager said the crowds on Christmas Eve were not as large as in years past.
The final rush was enjoyable for some.
"I come to watch the craziness; I’m all done and wrapped," said Kevin Martin.
Despite the looming deadline, many people were in the holiday spirit. Some people even treated themselves to gifts.
"Perfume, candles. I bought a purse, some workout gear. That should be one of my New Year's resolutions, to work out so I'm ready, I have the gear," said Yolanda Humphries.
Most stores close at 6 p.m. but Target will be open until 10 p.m.