MISHAWAKA — The official start of the holiday shopping season got under way Friday morning. Shoppers arrived at local retailers as early as 4 a.m. to get what are typically considered the best deals of the season.

At Kohl's on Main Street in Mishawaka, a long line formed in both directions from the entrance.

Several people said this was their first time shopping on Black Friday.

Aaron Tobias and his wife said they have never done this before, but came to save on Barbies. The economy was a factor in their early morning decision.

"This is the first year we've done it to get the sales and so we can save an extra little bit of money," said Aaron.

He wasn't alone in line.

Tony Wantuch said he had never joined his wife for her post-Thanksgiving Day shopping adventure.

"We wanted to get out here and get some good savings," said Tony.

Sharon said he wasn't completely on board.

"I drug him out of bed to come with me," she said.

There was also a long line snaked around the Best Buy in Mishawaka.

Lisa Luckey had been waiting since 7 o’clock Thursday night for an XBOX 360 for her son.

She says her budget was the motivating factor.

"Huge part, uh yeah, good deals, good sales — that will bring me out."

Even after waiting outside for hours, many at Best Buy then waited hours inside for computers.

Jim Richey, like most people, is tightening his budget and said the good deals are worth the wait.

"It's like a $300 savings," he said. "So you’re saving quite a bit of money."

Managers at local stores were relieved to see the long lines.

Kevin Klodzinski has worked at best Buy for 10 years, and says this year compares well with last.

"Building up to this day it's been tension, and this day has proved there's nothing really to worry about. It's good," he said.

Good at least for now. It will take days before retailers know if Black Friday will help boost sales during an otherwise tough retail economy.