Experts say Americans spent $34 billion on last-minute holiday shopping last weekend

GRAFTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Despite the pandemic, stores are still busy with last-minute Christmas shoppers.

The rush is on for gifts and goods for the holiday celebrations.

The National Retail Federation estimates that Americans spent $34 billion last weekend on last-minute shopping for the holidays.

They are predicting that people will spend about $1,000 this holiday season, the most since they started keeping track.

The store director at Meijer in Grafton says that popular items include appliances, toys and clothes. 

People shopping on Thursday, Dec. 24 said they didn't have a lot left to do, and just had to pick up a few things.

"I usually have it done pretty quickly, so it's just more for getting out and getting some games and some last-minute things," said shopper Laura Wollerstein. "Maybe getting a little eggs and milk and simple stuff."

"Just grabbing a couple presents and some veggies and stuff," said shopper Jenny Carl. 

Experts say Americans spent $2.5 billion more this last weekend than on Black Friday.