Holiday shopping in full swing at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WIVB) -- The holiday season is in full swing, and the clock is ticking for those scrambling to check off last-minute items on their lists.

Shoppers are filling up local malls and outlets, grabbing everything they need before Dec. 25. The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls has seen quite the rise in shoppers this time of year.

"We've been very pleased with the foot traffic here," said John Doran, senior property manager at the mall. "Shoppers have been using their plastic to a great degree."

Most shoppers were looking to save some money on their last-minute gifts, taking advantage of all the holiday discounts.

"It honestly gets a little chaotic, but it's a good reason," said Amherst resident Alexa Tamburlin. "There are a lot of good stores here."

With the location being so close to Canada, people from all over make the trip to the mall. For Niagara Falls, Ontario resident Mark Copsey, being in close proximity to his home makes shopping a breeze.

"I'm about a 15-minute drive and I'm really happy to be close to this mall," said Copsey. "I'm looking to get some Buffalo Bills hats for myself and some Sabres hats for myself as well."

Doran said the mall has gotten quite the upgrade over the last year. Several new stores have been added and are ready for shoppers.

"Pandora, a very popular jewelry store. We have Cinnabon in the food court," said Doran. "Hot Topic opened late last year. It's just a great place to shop for Christmas."

Western New Yorkers are looking forward to the holiday season, saying there is a lot to be grateful for this year.

"I pretty much got everything I need. I don't really want anything," said Buffalo resident Kevin Cheek. "I want to watch other people be happy and just remember what the real reason for the season is."

It's not too late to bring the kids to meet Santa himself either. You can book your reservation for photos with Santa here.