TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) - On the day before Christmas, some shoppers were still in the stores looking for Christmas gifts for family and friends.
Mitzi Phillips of Tupelo said, "I have one more present to buy. It's for a patient. He's very sick and I wanted to do something special for him."
At the Corner Shoe Store, customers were in the store early Monday.
It's been a common sight for the last several weeks.
There's something else the store's owners have noticed about shoppers this year compared to recent years.
Julie Palmer with Corner Shoe Store said, "They're happier and more excited about Christmas this year. They're more excited about buying stuff for their kids and the family this year. You see an overall happiness this year we haven't seen in years past because it's been stressful for some people."
In fact, many retail groups and economic experts predict Americans are spending more this year on Christmas.
It's shaping up to be the best Christmas shopping season since the recession.
Not far away at Elizabeth Claire's, it's much the same sentiment.
E.C. Emmons with Elizabeth Claire's said, "It has been very busy. People have been out shopping trying to get last-minute goodies for everyone."
Retailers say a mix of some bargains plus items customers really want and are willing to pay for has them looking for a good last few months of 2012.
Emmons said, "I feel like we've had a great season. We've been blessed."
On the last shopping day before Christmas, retailers say they're hoping consumers will help them wrap up a great holiday season.
