Central Illinois parking lots turned into a holiday battleground as last-minute shoppers rushed to grab gifts before Christmas. Even with inflation worries and shipping delays, folks packed local stores, taking advantage of the sunny weather after weeks of snow kept everyone inside. Shop owners in Champaign-Urbana noticed a big surge, especially from procrastinators and those whose online orders didn’t arrive in time. With mailing deadlines passed, local businesses are seeing a boost, and some are even staying open on Christmas Eve. Anyone else braving the crowds or sticking to digital gift cards this year? #Shopping #CentralIL #HolidayShopping