Friday, November 26, 2010

Bargain hunters poured into Wichita stores Friday for the busiest shopping day of the year. And this year, the Black Friday crowds caught customers and workers by surprise, as people poured in by the hundreds.

"Just ridiculous, I can't believe it. I'm not used to anything like this," said shopper Jenny Chapman.

At Target in New Market Square, the line wrapped around the building and reached over to Best Buy next door. So those towards the front of the line said they had been waiting since early evening the night before. People waiting overnight had to brave freezing temperatures, but they still said it was worth it.

"Oh yeah we're so glad we got here early. That's ridiculous back there [at the end of the line]. I'm glad I'm not back there, for sure," said Jackie Seamster.

"Heck yeah, Black Friday's always worth it," said Brett Voth.

One of the most popular items on Black Friday was TV's, with people saving anywhere from $50 to $400 on flat screens at Target. Early shoppers also had their eyes on other electronics, and some set their sights on the toy aisle.

"My 4-year-old daughter wants Barbies, and Toy Story 3," said Melanie Stoecklein.

Even once shoppers got inside, it was still a battle to the check out.

"People everywhere, I mean you've got to barge through everybody just to get anything," said William Altman.

"It's America at its finest I guess. You know, it was hectic, but it was fun," said Voth.

Target managers say they had a constant stream of customers entering the store for a solid hour-and-a-half after the doors opened at 4:00 a.m. Some workers say it's the longest line they've ever seen on Black Friday.