The final countdown: Last minute Christmas shopping

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – It’s the final countdown to Christmas, and many people are racing against the clock to check off their lists before stores close.

“We just have a few little things to get, we usually do just like stocking stuffers and some white elephant-type gifts,” the Gammeter Family, who were out shopping, said.

Among the few open stores on Christmas Eve, Books-A-Million is open until 7 p.m.

“Some people will come here and buy some of the smaller stuff for kids, like toys or an extra book or a gift card for someone they can just add to stockings,” Julia Redbear, the assistant general manager at Books-A-Million, said.

These last-minute gift shoppers are grateful for the opportunity, but mindful of the workers behind the counters.

“I have sort of a love-hate relationship with that because as much as I love that they are open I want the employees to spend time with their families too so I hope that they have shortened hours today,” the Gammeter Family said.

But, some Books-A-Million employees say they don’t mind the Christmas Eve rush.

“I think it’s really fun. It’s interesting to see not only the last-minute shoppers, but I think sometimes it draws people in who maybe don’t normally come to our store that often,” Redbear explained.

And, some even admit to being last-minute shoppers themselves.

“I tend to do that sometimes too at the last minute it’s like I want to add something extra to someone’s gift,” Redbear said.

Other stores that are open for last-minute gifts include Target, Sam’s Club, Kohl’s, Lowes, Cabela’s, Petsmart and Walmart.

But, they all close between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

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