Black Friday countdown begins

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Two weeks from right now, serious shoppers will be fueled up from their Thanksgiving feast, and counting the minutes until they can storm the stores on Black Friday.

Massachusetts' Blue Laws prevent stores from opening before midnight, but that's not the case everywhere. Walmart announced today that in other states, their deals would begin at 8pm Thanksgiving night-- before dessert is even served!

In just two weeks time, millions of people across the country will finish giving thanks for what they have, and switch gears to hunting for what they want. Neither the long lines, cold temperatures, nor lack of sleep will stop the truly dedicated from getting their hands on Black Friday sales.

“I love shopping. Everything I find, I'll bargain like oh sales! I go with my mom and my family. It's crazy out there,” said Shanice Reyes of Springfield.

One woman who works in retail told 22News she wouldn't dare venture into the chaos to shop, although she's usually on the other side of the counter.

“Like really insanely early in the morning and people are there and I'm always surprised that they're there,” said Alyssa Hickson of Southampton.

Shoppers who have Black Friday experience say there's one thing for certain it can be a battle getting to those bargains. So it's important to head into the stores with a plan of action.

“We try to plan ahead. Usually my sisters and I the night before will stay up all night and go in the lines and we go shopping. It's really hectic. But it's fun and worth it,” said Maria Savageau of Chicopee.

Those Black Friday veterans we spoke with did add that although it's all for Christmas shopping, it's certainly not done in the Christmas spirit. They said things can get a little scary when the pushing and shoving begins, but it's all worth it to find gifts at the right price.