AVENTURA, Fla. — Black Friday bargain hunters were out well into the night at Aventura Mall, where Santa met with children for photos.
Tom Orr said the mall at 19501 Biscayne Boulevard was so crowded that finding parking was a challenge, but it was all worth it.
“We just recently got engaged, so I want to make the fiancée happy, so this is where we are at today,” Orr said.
In-store shopping is still strong. According to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday remains the most popular day for shoppers.
“My key plan is to follow my wife: Splendid, Zara, Lululemon, J.Crew, and then we go to eat,” Franz Spasic said while carrying their daughter.
Phil Rist, executive vice president of strategy at Prosper Insights & Analytics, said research shows there is an element of tradition for locals.
“Many Americans consider shopping to be an important part of their Thanksgiving holiday and one of the best ways to get deals on gifts,” Rist said.
The mall plans to close at 10 p.m. this holiday season on Saturdays until Dec. 20, and at 8 p.m. on Sundays. The mall will close at 9:30 p.m. on other days.
Santa Claus’s area is at the mall’s upper level in front of Zara, and it includes a mail box for regular letter deliveries to the North Pole.
More on shopping
- ‘Grinch busters’ hunting for thieves give shoppers safety tips: Stay vigilant
- Long lines, big crowds mark Black Friday at Dolphin, Sawgrass Mall
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