Last-minute shopping options limited

Across the area, chain stores are extending their hours to cater to procrastinating shoppers who need to pick up some last-minute gifts.

Toys “R” Us stores, for example, have been open 24 hours a day this week and will remain open through Christmas Eve.

In Suffolk, however, most chain “big box” stores are closing at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve.

Belk, Kohl’s and Bed, Bath and Beyond all close at 6 Christmas Eve and will remain closed on Christmas Day.

Kohl’s, however, has had extended hours all week, remaining open from 6 a.m. to midnight every day except today.

“It depends on the weather and everything else” whether sales are high on Christmas Eve, said Bridgette Brooker, a manager at Kohl’s.

Some last-minute shoppers at Belk on Thursday said they had begun their Christmas shopping early but needed just a few more things to fill out the list.

“We had to do inventory and see what we missed,” said Debbie Smith, who exited Belk with her husband Tracy and several bags in tow. “I always start early, but I didn’t start as early [this year].”

The Smiths said they had picked up some gifts for family at the store.

“When your kids get older, their lists get very expensive and very limited,” Debbie Smith said. “And they change their mind three or four times.”

Some small businesses will be open on Christmas Eve. Uniquely Leo’s gift shop, at 120 N. Main St., will close at 3 p.m. today. Next door, Shooting Star Gallery is already closed up for the holiday.

In North Suffolk, Katody’s at Shoppes on the Village Greene, 1893 Governors Pointe Drive, will be open to 4 p.m. today with complimentary gift wrap to cater to eleventh-hour shoppers.

“This week has been pretty busy,” said Kathy Flythe, owner of Katody’s. “There are those last-minute shoppers that want to avoid the mall.”

Her store also carries many products that are made in America, which also has been a big draw this season, she said.

“A lot of people are looking for that this year,” she said.

Nearby, Bon Vivant Market closes at 4 p.m. A Tisket, A Tasket closes at 6 p.m.

Anybody who has left their shopping to the very last minute has limited options on Christmas Day. Both Walgreens stores in Suffolk — 2902 Godwin Blvd. and 3633 Bridge Road — will be open, though the Bridge Road location is only open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Godwin Boulevard store will remain open 24 hours that day.

Both Walmarts in Suffolk will close at 8 p.m. today and remain closed on Christmas Day.