Shopping on the day after Thanksgiving has become a tradition for many American families and this year is no exception.

Malls and stores will be bombarded with people young and old, trying to take advantage of store deals and sales; others will be there enjoying the holiday day off.

Overall, November is the most popular time to begin holiday shopping, and in the search for gifts, the average shopper will visit nine stores this holiday season. No surprise then, the variety of businesses who are participating in the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce’s "Holiday Open House" Sunday, November 30 from 1-5 p.m.

The participating businesses include Omni Sports, Burdett-Sharpes, Flowers by Maison de Briques, Designer Showcase, Plantation Gallery, The Green Leaf, The Mustard Seed, Omnifarious Books and Gifts, The Athlete’s Foot, Puppy Dog Tails, Angel Wing Gallery, Spec-Tacular and Beau Mondes,

Instead of venturing to larger venues in Tuscaloosa and Meridian, businesses are opening their doors to the City of Demopolis and its people.

Allen Bishop, chairman of the Chamber board of directors, said "The Thanksgiving weekend is the official kick-off for Christmas and holiday shopping. Take this time to get out and visit some o the great merchants we have right here in Demopolis. There are some very unique gift items and some great prices set for this particular holiday sale."

Most of the participating stores are excited and expecting to be real busy throughout the remainder of the holiday season.