EDINA, Minn. — Year after year, a lot of us wait until the last minute to complete our holiday shopping.
But on Tuesday, there seemed to be more urgency than usual.
Ahead of the winter storm that could bring blizzard-like conditions heading into Christmas Eve, people packed malls and shopping districts across the Twin Cities to run their final errands. In the area of 50th & France in Edina, shoppers quickly hopped from store to store with bags in their hands, running at times to escape the bitter cold.
At the clothing store Altar'd State, brand representative Ashley Stahl said slippers, socks and sweaters have been the most popular items.
"It's been so busy today. We have had a ton of guests coming in," Stahl said. "A lot of last-minute gift shopping."
Ella Pearson, for example, found herself in Edina on Tuesday searching for a few final gifts due to the approaching winter storm.
"I was going to do everything tomorrow, but my family lives near Duluth, so we have to drive up tomorrow morning instead of Thursday like we thought. And it's my birthday tomorrow, so I had plans," Pearson said. "I canceled everything. I had three gifts I was going to buy tomorrow, but I'm doing it right now!"
Meanwhile, the grocery stores — including Lunds & Byerlys and Target — were packed Tuesday afternoon. Parking was at a premium, with lines forming at times to enter and exit the lots.
But, Minnesota of all places knows how to prepare for a snowstorm.
"I'm used to it. I'm from here," Peason said. "I'm not very scared, and I like the snow!"
Watch more local news:
Watch the latest local news from the Twin Cities in our YouTube playlist: