Black Friday 2014: Deals now, more sales throughout holidays, retailers say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Temperatures should be rising this weekend, which is encouraging news for bargain hunters.

The holiday shopping season is underway, and staffers at Target on the Near North Side are getting pumped for the holiday rush.

"We start preparing for this weeks and months in advance," said Becca Banks, Target.

Even before Black Friday, some shoppers are ready.

"She wanted a special princess toy, and I figured the sooner I got it the better, otherwise it might be gone," said Donna Johnson.

"I think it's good to get in here before all the craziness happens and everything gets sold out. You don't have to fight the crowds right now," said Lindsay Dulla.

Target has spent months now evaluating and updating their systems after a data breach of customer information.

"Target's just really gone above and beyond, and really put in a lot of extra measures. Put in some extra keypads to have that extra security," Banks said.

Shoppers who spoke to Eyewitness News said they feel secure with shopping but they just want to get it done. Some early holiday shoppers were at the Walmart on South Coles.

"I'm done! Yay! No Black Friday for me, I get to do it for myself," said Jan Tatje.

Store employees set up pre-Black Friday sales and shoppers are noticing earlier sales, with deals spread out.

"Black Friday is the official kickoff, so we have deals here, but we're going to have deals all throughout the holiday season," said Erica Jones, Walmart.