By Gabrielle Terrett

The Vicksburg Post

Thanksgiving is not only about turkey, ham and dressing but it is also about the many retail sales. Hundreds of people came out to shop and take advantage of the deals Thursday.

This year a number of big box store businesses in Vicksburg had Thanksgiving deals starting the afternoon of Turkey Day.

“We’ve been waiting outside since 3 o’clock,” Jan Reeves said as she stood outside Belk at the Vicksburg Mall. “I plan to get several different things. I’m not sure what I can get or what I want but I will get it when I see it.”

Belk and Walmart both kicked off the day of sales at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., respectively, with discounted electronics, luggage, clothing and other items.

Belk had a line circling the store from entrance to entrance. Some of the patrons were there for hours.

“We’ve been waiting for maybe three hours,” said Tamela Campbell. “We’re looking to get electronics, luggage and other products. It isn’t a tradition but we probably will not come back out this early.”

Each year the stores bring out a great deal of Vicksburg residents to participate in a family tradition or start a new one.

“Well, basically I’m just buying some essentials we need for the tea house. As a pre-med student and a holistic chef I serve those that have high blood pressure, diabetes and are pre-diabetic during the holidays when their families are eating different types of meats,” said Chastity Chyld, owner of Tea with a Northern Duchess in Vicksburg, as she stood outside Walmart. “So I’m looking for the low plant-based, low sodium items that I can carry over today.”

Regardless of the reason, people crowded into the local stores and are expected to be out in force for Black Friday, as well as Small Business Saturday, seeking more deals.