Thousands swarm Fashion Outlets

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WIVB) - At the stroke of midnight, thousands of shoppers swarmed through the doors at the Niagara Falls Fashion Outlets.

Young people and families raced to the outlet mall before the clock even struck twelve.

For some dedicated shoppers, Midnight Madness is an important Thanksgiving tradition.

Shopper Lee Brenon said, "We have a list, we just look at the ads see when everything opens, write it all down, see what everyone wants and kind of prep from there."

Mall management is expecting more than 68,000 customers before 6 a.m.

Fashion Outlets of Niagara General Manager Mary Whelan said, "We make sure we prepare for security, security at different entrances, and really keeping lines in order, so that everyone can shop and it gets a little crowded like this, but we want to make sure it's fun and safe."

Many shoppers are on the hunt for deals on designer gifts.

The wait to get in to the Coach store is one of the longest.

"It seems like forever. I think it's been an hour and a half, at least. And we still have to go so far," said Chenise Beadle and Rochelle Richards, of Toronto.

Long lines weren't an issue for Lauren Kranz.

She won a "Jump to the Front" pass through a radio contest, so she could cut any line she wanted, with the added protection of a military escort.

"We haven't had to spend any time in line, he walks right up to get in the stores to cash out so it's been great," said Lauren Kranz.