Shoppers across the Alleghenies stood in the cold for a chance on some hot deals Friday.

A long line of people waited anxiously to get inside Circuit City in the Richland Towne Center. Shoppers decked out in scarves, blankets and hoods were glad the rain and snow stayed away, but said the wind in the middle of the night was bitter.

While some brought heaters, others erected a tent to help keep warm.

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Video: Smaller Malls Still Draw Customers From Across The Alleghenies

Video: People Line Up Early For Black Friday Deals

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Once the doors opened at 5 a.m., the aisles became a maze of people as shopping carts started to fill up with everything from laptops to televisions to video games.

While most shoppers were successful at checking off items on their holiday shopping lists, the turnout was lower this year as people decided to stay in this Black Friday and save money.

“People are trying to save for heating expenses, gas and food,” said Paulette Budash, a shopper.

Still, retailers said they hope their bargains and deals bring in the green, and even smaller shopping centers were attracting people.

The parking lot at the Dubois mall was packed and traffic was heavy on the roads surrounding the shopping centers. Inside the mall, people were lining up for the best deals on the season’s most popular gifts.

Sharon Graham and her family drove about 25 miles to the mall from the small community of Shiloh, near Clearfield.

“Every year my mother, my sisters and I along with my kids go Black Friday shopping. We pick a different location every year. Two years ago it was Altoona, last year was State College and this year is Dubois, Graham said.

Shoppers from Clearfield, Brookville, St. Mary’s and State College also hit the stores bright and early.

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