HONOLULU (KHON2) — The holiday shopping season has begun with many stores already releasing their Black Friday deals. It comes as the National Retail Federation predicts record spending this year.
Target has begun its Black Friday deals now through Christmas Eve. Home Depot, Lowes and Ace Hardware have started their deals too.
Best Buy got an early start and will also release new doorbusters every Friday. Walmart’s Black Friday kicks off on Monday online, and Nov. 15 in-store.
“So it all kind of started slowly in October,” explained Tina Yamaki, Retail Merchants of Hawaii president. “And it’s a big weekend because it’s Veteran’s Day weekend, it’s a three-day holiday, so you’re seeing more people out and the sales have really started.”
This year, the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is 26 days, the shortest time in five years, which is another reason why deals are dropping early.
“There’s a big competition going on right now,” Yamaki added. She said even the smaller stores have begun discounting items.
“It’s kind of like FOMO, you’re scared to be left out so everyone is kind of doing it and you want to attract people to come into your store so they might buy the discounted item, but they might also buy five other items not on sale,” she added.
To make sure your getting the best deal, if you know exactly what you want, a Google search can go a long way. Just type in the item you’re looking to buy, and Google will bring up the item you’re looking for with prices from other stores.
Spending is also expected to reach new levels. According to the National Retail Federation, consumer holiday spending is expected to hit $902 per person on average for food, décor and gifts. Holiday spending is expected to total nearly $1 trillion in November and December with total spending predicted to be at $989 billion.
“Online is looking to go up a bit more, and more people are also going into stores as well,” Yamaki said.
Although online shopping is still the most popular way to shop, she said more people are feeling comfortable going into stores again, but she warns people who shop online to make sure they’re buying from a legitimate website and company.
“If it’s too good to be true, there’s probably a reason for that,” she said.
The NRF said nearly half of holiday shoppers plan to browse and buy items before November ends, which is up 40% from a decade ago.
Most people surveyed said they want to get a head start so they can spread out their budget and avoid last-minute shopping stress and the crowds.
Ala Moana Shopping Center will have extended hours and exclusive promotions on Friday, Nov. 29. The shopping center will be open on Black Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with many stores offering early-bird deals.
There will also be holiday performances throughout the holiday season at Centerstage and the Ewa Wing Stage.
The popular Christmas-themed bar will be open daily at Ala Moana Center from 5 p.m. to midnight from Dec. 1 to Dec. 28.
Extended Holiday Hours
Ala Moana Center is normally open daily from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Beginning, Dec. 6, Ala Moana Center will extend its hours of operation to give shoppers extra time to tackle their holiday shopping list. Individual store, restaurant and department store hours may vary.
Date Hours of Operation
Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving Day) Closed
Nov. 29 (Black Friday) 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Nov. 30-Dec. 5 (Normal Hours) 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Dec. 6-23 (Extended Hours) Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m..
Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Dec. 25 (Christmas Day) Closed