UPDATE: A surge of last-minute shoppers has taken over Phoenix stores as families scramble to complete their holiday preparations just hours before Christmas. Local retailers, including Safeway and Walgreens, are seeing a steady stream of customers racing to pick up final gifts and groceries.
As the clock ticks down to Christmas Day, shoppers are finding some relief at local stores, with Safeway open until 11 p.m. and Walgreens maintaining its 24/7 schedule for those in need of last-minute items.
Reports from FOX 10 journalist Nicole Krasean highlight a mix of excitement and urgency among customers. Many expressed a relaxed “Christmas spirit,” while others hurried to finish their meal prep and gift wrapping before the holiday festivities kick off.
Shoppers described their frantic searches for essential items, including gift cards, toothpaste, and candy. One customer humorously remarked, “You need that after you have the candy.”
“I don’t mind. I love it. I love the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, I love it. It’s the Christmas spirit,”
shared one enthusiastic shopper, capturing the mix of joy and urgency that defines last-minute shopping.
Additionally, some customers were spotted picking up beverages, with one shopper quipping, “Family can make you want to drink a little more.” Another added that they were stocking up on “pie and a little bit of appetizers just to get us through.”
In contrast, several shoppers were focused on wrapping gifts in the final hours before Christmas. One shopper shared, “Yes, a lot of YouTube and hopefully my girlfriend doesn’t get upset about my wrapping style but I think she’ll be happy with the gift and that’s the important part.”
As the excitement builds for Christmas morning, many are reflecting on the joy of finding the perfect presents. One shopper shared their find: a Nightmare Before Christmas themed train that will undoubtedly bring smiles to their loved ones.
For anyone in Phoenix still needing to complete their holiday shopping, Safeway remains open until 11 p.m., and Walgreens is available for those critical last-minute purchases, even on Christmas morning.
As families prepare to gather and celebrate, the rush of Christmas Eve shopping continues to define the season for many, blending urgency with the joy of giving.
