Shoppers flock to malls on Christmas Eve

PEABODY, Mass. (WHDH) -- There was a mad dash at malls across America as last minute shoppers, mostly men, raced against the clock to finish their holiday shopping.

“We're always last minute. It's more fun that way!” said one shopper.

Whatever the reason for waiting, for some people, Christmas Eve shopping is now part of the tradition.

“We see a lot of men come in on this day. They come in either by themselves or with their children and we also interestingly enough see a lot of college students,” said Mark Whiting, North Shore mall manager.

If you can find what you what, chances are you can still find it on sale.

North Shore Mall stores are offering deep discounts.

“I’m looking for bargains,” said a shopper.

That's one reason to join the crowd, even if you're ahead in the gift-giving game.

“I’ve never shopped the day before Christmas, so I just wanted to see who did that,” said an on-looker.

Some shoppers just got started yesterday.

Last minute shoppers seem right on trend. On the Saturday before Christmas, sales at most stores in the North Shore mall topped even Black Friday's big numbers.

The time for gifting may be wrapping up, but the day after Christmas, the buying frenzy will pick right back up.

“We will throw open the doors and be ready for what is also a Christmas tradition,” said Whiting.

The North Shore mall will reopen at 8 a.m. Wednesday for those looking for post-Christmas sales.