Maryland is preparing to kick off the holiday shopping season on Black Friday

BALTIMORE – As Thanksgiving comes to a close, the holiday shopping season officially begins.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that the period between Black Friday and Cyber ​​Monday could break records as it predicts more than 183 million people will shop.

Despite the dominance of online shopping, shopping in person remains a strong preference for some shoppers.

WJZ spoke to several Baltimoreans about whether or not they would shop on Black Friday, and for every person who didn’t want to, someone said they would.

“It’s a little hectic,” Regina Webb said. “(Plus) my kids don’t really like shopping.”

Jamall Watts said he can’t wait and plans to give his son an iPhone and buy furniture for his house.

In its annual survey, the NRF predicts that nearly 132 million people will shop on Black Friday. Two-thirds of these shoppers are expected to visit the store.

AAA reminds anyone heading out to put their purchases in the trunk out of sight.

“They don’t want to make them visible,” said Ragina Ali of AAA Mid-Atlantic. “This doesn’t just apply to Black Friday and Christmas shopping, but always. Make sure your packages are secure in the trunk of your vehicle to avoid attracting potential thieves.”

According to NRF estimates, more than 72 million people are expected to shop on Cyber ​​Monday.

AAA warns that scammers will be operating 24/7 this holiday season. To reduce your risk of becoming a victim, AAA recommends purchasing from major retailers or verified vendors.

Also use a credit card if you have one. Ali said credit cards are often better protected against fraudulent charges and identity theft than debit cards.

The following area malls will be open on Black Friday. It should be noted that some stores in these malls may be open earlier than the mall itself.

• Towson Town Center is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m
• White March Mall is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m
• Eastpoint Mall is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m
• The mall in Columbia is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m
• Arundel Mills is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m
• The Annapolis Mall is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m
• Marley Station Mall is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m

The following retailers are open on Black Friday:

• The destination opens at 6 a.m
• Walmart opens at 6 a.m
• Kohl’s opens at 5 a.m
• Macy’s opens at 6 a.m
• JCPenney opens at 5 a.m
• Best Buy opens at 6 a.m