Christmas shopping at the last minute? You're not alone as many pack area malls

KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa. - There’s nothing like waiting until the last minute!

The King of Prussia Mall only got busier throughout the day on Christmas Eve as shoppers grabbed some last-minute gifts.

Joe Abboud says he prefers to wait until Christmas Eve to start shopping.

"I wait on purpose to really get into the feel of the season, it’s a great day," he says. "It’s all good, I mean it’s all about the family, so it’s not really about exactly what you get, it’s the thought that counts, right?"

For some, the last-minute shopping is a tradition.

"We have this annual tradition where we try to come down to the mall, see what’s going on, get some last-minute shopping," says Jordan Gilkes.

It turns out - it wasn’t a bad move.

The mall did get busier throughout the day, but the crowds were manageable and the lines minimal. Many shoppers told FOX 29 with the shorter time between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the holidays really snuck up this year.

"The year just flies by nowadays, I’m kind of scared to see how fast 2025 goes," says Gilkes.

By early afternoon, the longest line was waiting for a picture with Santa, with many getting in some final requests before his big night.

"I want a stuffed, squishy kitty in a Christmas blanket," says Livia Yovino.

Big sister to three younger brothers, Ellie Gangemi is definitely on the "nice" list.

"What are you looking forward to most about Christmas?" asked FOX 29's Kelly Rule.

"Spending time with our family," Gangemi says.

The King of Prussia Mall will be closed on Christmas Day but will be back open at 10 a.m. on Thursday for those that want to spend their gift card money or make returns. But hopefully not.