D’IBERVILLE, Miss. (WLOX) – While Christmas may be in the rearview now, holiday shopping isn’t done just yet.

On Thursday, South Mississippi roads are busy as families rush to stores eager to spend holiday money.

“We’re just doing our after-Christmas shopping, you know,” explained shopper Taylor Graves. “The 50% sales are amazing. We just left Walmart and picked up a bunch of stuffed animals. You know those Squishmallows aren’t cheap.”

Like Graves, many are searching for deals at big box stores such as GameStop, Best Buy, Target, and more.

According to the National Retail Federation, it’s projected that $28.3 billion was spent on gift cards in 2023. Shoppers such as Harleigh Knight and Ava Woods received gift cards this year and say they look forward to spending them.

“I’d rather get money than get actual things,” said Knight.

“I like to get money because I don’t like wasting money on stuff I either already have or just not going to use,” added Woods.

Reports show holiday spending climbed 3.8% this year despite higher prices and consumer spending accounts for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity overall.

“The prices to me are still pretty good,” stated another shopper. “The prices are still affordable. They could be a little better. I mean, the economy is a little slow right now. The shelves are empty, so it’s looking pretty good.”

While families are cashing in on deals, many are just thrilled to do so together.

“I just like spending time with my family and just looking around, it’s like a little tradition,” said another..

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