People holiday shopping early this year

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The official start of the holiday shopping season is November 27th, the day after Thanksgiving.  Some people got an early, start despite the bleak economy.

Hundreds of people packed the Indiana State Fairgrounds for the Christmas Gift and Hobby Show.  Inside the West Pavilion, some 350 exhibitors filled with books, bears and tons of bargains.  "Everybody comes out for a bargain," said Gloria Long of Anderson.

Just weeks away from the official start of the Holiday shopping season people are starting their shopping early.  24- Hour News 8 found many them opening their wallets to help stimulate the economy.

"I think it depends on what it is. I probably want be buying a lot of big gifts, but trying to do things more personal," said Andrea Slane of Columbus.

"It's the Holidays.. everyone wants to give," said Donell Walton.  Walton is the Executive Director of the Christmas Gift and Hobby Show.  Walton said compared to last year, attendance is up at this year's show.  "Last year they took a little bit of a nose dive so we're glad to see, so if that's any indication the economy certainly seems to be coming back," said Walton.

Walton said because of a tough year due to job losses and unemployment nationwide, people "are" being cautious with their money.

"The economy still seems to be kind of in a tail spin, but people are still coming to the Christmas Show because everyone wants to buy something for someone for Christmas," Walton said.

"We have retirement saved; we've not changed the way we've saved. We're lucky enough my husband still has a job," said Donnar Barnett of Whiteland.

"A lot of people save for this event. They save throughout the year to come to this event," said Long.  Long traveled from Anderson to visit the show.  Long said despite saving, she's not spending too much this season.

"This year I am cutting back on the gifts I'm giving. I'm not going to be spending as near as much as I typically do, but just for the sake that we're already blessed and its time to give to others who aren't," Long said.

Officials estimate more than 60-thousand people attended the Christmas Gift and Hobby Show during its four days.

They said they will know the exact numbers on attendance Monday.