That's because the big box retailers decided to kick-off their big sales a day earlier than usual.
Some folks were lined up Thursday, trying to grab those deals even before they gobble-up turkey dinner.
Toys'R'Us opened its doors at 9pm Thursday. About 750 shoppers passed through the toy store on Westheimer in the first hour Store management only allowed 50 shoppers in at a time. The Houston Police Department was hired to provide security.
An hour later, Walmart stores opened.
Midnight openings were planned for Macy's, Kohl's, Best Buy and Target.
We found individuals, couples, families and students spending their Thanksgiving holiday "occupying" an area Best Buy.
Nearly one out of every three Americans say they are "definitely" shopping this Black Friday weekend.
In all, Americans are expected to spend $266 billion on gifts this year.