Black Friday shopping: big deals, big crowds

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Black Friday is typically one of the biggest shopping days of the year and a day retailers hope to cash in as the National Retail Federation estimates 136 million people will be shopping during the four-day weekend compared to a little more than 133 million last year.

It's a much of a tradition as turkey on Thanksgiving. Millions of people nationwide headed out to hunt for deals on Black Friday and that includes right here in the valley.

From sporting goods stores to outlets to the mall, stores were packed with discounts and shoppers alike.

30 minutes before the doors opened at Cabella's in Glendale, the first 600 people in line received a gift card valued from $10 and up and five rifles were given away.

"That's awesome. A free rifle. It's cool," said Austin Wick.

The rifle is valued at $639.

"We give a lot of door incentives. Our door busters for instance, we have a safe for $999.. usually $1,500.

Incentives, giveaways -- like a $100 gift card with a certain purchase at Target -- a reason shoppers hit the stores instead of buying online.

A National Retail Federation survey found more people planned to shop on the holiday than last year. 22.3 percent vs. 18.3 percent. But Black Friday is still the day with 73.5 percent indicating they'll shop that day. The NRF says that's down from 68.2 percent last year, but store managers don't agree.

"We're looking at the line outside.. bigger than it was last year.. we probably have 780 people in line.. last year, it was 600 and some, so we're doing much better," said Cabella's JiM Marrufo.

The NRF said it expects overall holiday sales will increase 3.7 percent this season.

With 27 days left until Christmas, there's plenty of time for people to shop, as long as they keep their energy up.

Retailers are offering extended hours throughout the holiday shopping season. Each store is different, so be sure to check before heading out.