Black Friday shoppers line up early outside Macy's flagship store in Herald Square
NEW YORK -- The post-Thanksgiving tradition of Black Friday had crowds of shoppers racing to snatch up the biggest bargains.
CBS New York sent reporter Dave Carlin to where the action was, some of our area malls.
Up early and in the spirit were employees of Macy's Herald Square, saying "Come on in" to Black Friday shoppers when the clock struck 6 a.m.
"We're early birds," a shopper named Adam said.
The National Retail Federation estimates that from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, 182 million people will shop, which is up from last year and the highest number since 2017.
"Not going overboard at all. Who knows? Depends on what I see," said Nicole Gaskin of Crown Heights.
Rachel LaBrecque was with her mom, Gaskin, mostly buying clothes and finding discounts on them.
"We got a couple of deals. Black Friday it's great," LaBrecque said.
Finance experts say one way to avoid needless overspending during the holidays is to have a clear idea of what you're looking for before you head to the stores or jump online.
"If you're getting something on your list for 40% off or more it's not going to get any cheaper. You also don't want to have to worry about the supply issue or delivery delays by waiting any longer," money-saving expert Andrea Woroch said.
She says apps and online sites let you check price histories, adding credit cards offering cash back and rewards are best.
"It's a big weekend for us. It's the official kick-off to the holiday season," said Jen Wong, co-founder of Park Slope-based shop Gone to the Dogs.
Wong said she wants everyone to remember that up next is Small Business Saturday.
This year, Gone To The Dogs, has a pop-up location at Hudson Yards.
"The toys, the sweaters and everything, we partner with other women around the world and pay fair living wages so they can support their family," Wong said.
Wong's and seven other small businesses share the space.
"It gives the shoppers a really cool complimentary experience to all the great stores here at Hudson yards," said Pam Batalis, senior VP of sponsorships for Wells Fargo.
What was once one big day of the biggest deals keeps expanding and stretching all season.
So plan ahead and shop wisely.