Christmas shoppers get head start

GREEN BAY - It's known as the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas. But with Halloween barely behind us and Thanksgiving more than three weeks away, is it really that time of year for holiday shopping? There's no snow on the ground. Leaves still cling to the trees. But already some signs of Christmas are here. Holiday music is on the radio, Downtown Green Bay has its tinsel candles hung up and shoppers are picking up gifts.
"I just got here and I already have my Christmas shopping done," said shopper Diana Sedenquist.
"I like to get it done. My goal is by the day after Thanksgiving to be finished," said Laura Nolan.
Nearly two months remain before Christmas is here. And some stores are already selling holiday items. But how early is too early?
"I think Christmas shopping before Halloween's a little early but I started today so I can't complain too much about it," said shopper Sue Hadtke.
Some shoppers said because of the economy they have no choice but to shop early.
"I've got my shopping about half done, I start early too because you have to . It's the only way you can afford to do it,"said Barb Sedenquist.
"People have to start spending a little bit at a time to try and make a decent holiday," said Hadtke.
In addition to buying gifts over time to ease their wallet, some shoppers said the stores make it tempting to grab gifts now.
"They have the sales earlier and earlier than they used to so I pick them up when I see them," said Bard Sedenquist.
Other shoppers said they want to hold out until the season gets nearer.
"I think there will be more sales especially around Thanksgiving," said David Nolan.
While Thanksgiving may be next on the calendar, the sights and sounds are a reminder Christmas isn't far behind. Whether you're waiting to buy gifts or stocking up now.