Mall Stores Open Even Earlier This Year for Black Friday Shoppers

Shoppers in search of killer deals can begin their hunt at the earlier than ever Friday.

The stores inside the mall won't all be open until 4 a.m. -- an hour earlier than last year -- but nightowl shoppers can hit up some of the larger department stores and certain other shops starting after midnight.

Mall General Manager Mark Whiting also told the Salem News that the mall will open its doors at that time with the lights and heat on to allow shoppers to come and go at the stores that are open.

(special deals) kicks off the holiday shopping season at 12:30 a.m. on Black Friday, followed by (special deals) at 1 a.m. opens at 4 a.m. (see special deals) along with (see special deals). also offers shoppers some special discounts.

Down the road on Route 114, opens at 5 a.m., along with the (see special deals). Petco is holding regular hours, but does have some weekend specials.

The mall will stay open until 10 p.m. to give shoppers plenty of time to scour holiday sales and promotions, and there will also be a number of other activities and offers from Simon Malls, including a free iPhone app, gift wrapping, entertainment, gift cards and photos with Santa.

Other Simon Malls in the area will be following the same schedule.

The Better Business Bureau also has a list of safety tips for Black Friday shopping worth checking out. The BBB says it can save you both time and money.