Topeka shoppers hit local stores in last-minute Thanksgiving rush

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Topekans rushed to local stores Wednesday night in a last-minute dash to grab what they need for the Thanksgiving holiday.

27 News caught up with some last-minute shoppers in the Topeka area on the night of Nov. 27 to see what they're getting before Thanksgiving Day. There was no shortage of shoppers to be found at businesses like Fleming Place Wine & Spirits or the Seabrook Apple Market.

Evelyn Fitzpatrick, shopping at the Seabrook Apple Market, told a 27 News reporter she's been holding a "Friendsgiving" celebration for the past 10 years where everyone pitches in with the cooking efforts. She said she was making a last-minute trip to the store to complete her contribution for the big day.

"I don't have enough eggs to make my pecan pie!" Fitzpatrick said. "I'm older so I'm by myself and my friends are by themselves so we're having an orphan Thanksgiving."

Liquor stores like Fleming Place also saw a mad dash for drinks as state law requires these types of businesses to close on Nov. 28. Workers at Fleming Place said they even have special holiday uniforms to wear.

"Thanksgiving rush is great!" said Bryan McDonald, owner of Fleming Place Wine & Spirits. "We just absolutely love it. So, one of the things that we focus on is getting people in and out."

People looking for a bite to eat on Thanksgiving will find only a limited number of local restaurants and fast food chains open for the holiday. Major stores like Dillons will also have reduced hours.

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