CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Black Friday is the busiest shopping day of the year and people are out taking advantage of the amazing deals stores are offering across the Carolinas.
For many people, Black Friday actually started on Thursday, with shopping being a big part of their Thanksgiving traditions.
"I think it's almost become part of Thanksgiving," said Hunter Wilson, who lives in Wilmington. "I think it's the biggest thing, just tradition kind of adding to that, with the deals and having a good time."
The Charlotte Premium Outlets and Concord Mills Mall both opened at 6 p.m. Thursday, giving people plenty of time to check everything off their holiday shopping lists.
"It's awesome. Just one word, awesome," said Nisar Kalaria, who spent more than 12 hours shopping.
The deals were just too good to pass up for many, with some stores offering between 50 and 75 percent off Friday.
"We got a 58-inch TV that was a pretty good deal," said Wilson. "It was less than $200 at Walmart."
The manager of the outlets says things were running smoothly after hitting capacity Thursday night and expecting more of the same Friday.
"We'll see larger crowds than any other day of the year but it's a fun, festive event," said Sharon Campbell. "It's become a family tradition and our shoppers have been awesome."
When it comes to safety, police say anyone out shopping should keep shopping bags out of sight when they're in the car and roll up your windows and always lock your doors. Also, carry as little cash as possible.