Saturday was Super Saturday, and it's become big business for retailers.
As the first day of winter set in, many braved the cold, and the crowds, on Saturday to finish shopping on the final weekend before Christmas.
Many stores around central North Carolina, including Target and Kohl's in Burlington, extended the hours to accommodate last-minute Christmas shoppers.
The final Saturday before Christmas is known as "Super Saturday" or "Panic Saturday."
It's become a big day for retailers. According to the National Retail Federation, more than 157 million people shopped online and in-person on Saturday. It is the second-largest amount of shoppers on Super Saturday ever, trailing 2022's total of 158 million.
"Super Saturday is one of the last opportunities during the holiday season for consumers to get the remaining items on their shopping list," NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen said. "With a shortened window between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, consumers will be hitting stores and shopping online to get those final gifts and to take advantage of special promotions and deals."
Jennifer De Leon was one of those shoppers scrambling for a last-minute deal.
"I know I've become part of this last-minute shopping," said Jennifer De Leon, who was out shopping.
Despite the last-minute rush, De Leon and others found inspiration in the aisles.
"[It] mainly has been in person, simply because I see [it] in person, and it reminds me of them, or if I think it's something they would enjoy, it's easier for me," she said.
According to the National Retail Federation, 44% of Saturday shoppers will shop in-person and online. Nathan Replogle is part of that group.
"I'm about 50-50," he said. "I still have to go get something for my mom, I hope it's good, otherwise I might get in trouble."
Many shoppers remain hopeful they can put a bow on their holiday shopping with days until Christmas.
The United States Postal Service said Saturday was the deadline to mail things and ensure they arrive before Christmas. If you haven't done so, shopping in person will be your best bet to get things by Christmas.
If you don't have time to go to big retailers and want to shop somewhere smaller and more local, check out our holiday gift guide here.