Shoppers Surge Early for Black Friday Deals at Cherry Hill Mall

UPDATE: Shoppers flocked to Cherry Hill Mall in New Jersey early this morning, eager to score Black Friday deals as the holiday shopping season kicks off. Lines began forming before sunrise, with many waiting outside JCPenney as early as 4:30 a.m., ready for the store’s opening at 5 a.m.

The excitement was palpable, with some shoppers still in their pajamas, driven by the thrill of savings. Young shopper Julianna candidly shared her reluctance, stating, “I didn’t!” Yet, for the sake of tradition and family bonding, early risers like Kat Marchowsky embraced the moment, celebrating her mom’s birthday with this annual shopping ritual.

“We think it’s just a fun tradition, and it’s really nice to spend time together,” said Marchowsky. “It’s a good way to kick off and wrap up Christmas shopping.”

As shoppers prepared for a long day of deals, many made sure to fuel up with coffee before diving into the festivities. Longtime visitors like Arlene Genden Sage and her cousin Brittany Sage reminisced about their early morning adventures, recalling past trips where they would arrive at the mall as early as 3 a.m.

“We’ve been coming every year since I was seven,” Brittany shared, emphasizing the family bonding that has become a cherished tradition for them.

This year, shoppers are not only looking for major retailers but also supporting local vendors set up in the Grand Court. Kathy Hott, an organizer with Hott Promotions, expressed her enthusiasm: “Black Friday is my favorite vending day of the year – all the hustle and bustle.”

While the mall is set to close at 9 p.m. tonight, both Macy’s and JCPenney will remain open for an extra hour, providing additional shopping opportunities for those looking to make the most out of their Black Friday experience.

With the holiday season officially underway, the excitement at Cherry Hill Mall represents a broader trend as consumers rush to secure the best deals. As this shopping frenzy develops, make sure to stay tuned for updates on the latest deals and shopping trends.