Some local families keep Black Friday shopping tradition alive

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- 'Tis the season to shop 'til you drop. Black Friday has officially arrived, and many local families are keeping their shopping traditions alive.

It's the biggest shopping weekend of the holiday season and it seems shoppers did not leave disappointed.

Many families who spend Black Friday at the mall every single year, some even setting their alarm clocks bright and early, continued the annual tradition Friday.

Annette Randle and Bettie Burmester told CBS 58 News their sisters came to visit from Missouri and Georgia to spend Thanksgiving weekend together.

"We love it, we spend too much money but it's worth it," said Burmester.

Southridge Mall General Manager Kersten Puechner said this is her second holiday season overseeing Black Friday. She said whether it's shopping online or in person, be on the lookout for flash sales Friday and later this weekend.

Online shopping may be more convenient for some, but other shoppers prefer going old school.

"I like getting out in person and looking at the things versus online," said Susane Zahnow.

Historically, the day after Thanksgiving has marked the start of the holiday shopping rush, but it seems this year, retailers have rolled out deals weeks ahead of Black Friday.