KTAR’s quick guide to Black Friday

The “most wonderful time of the year” is coming early this time around, at least in the retail world.

Many stores have decided waiting until Black Friday to start the holiday shopping season is simply too late — meaning the deal-seeking will now begin on Thanksgiving Day for some.

It’s a controversial move, as some say Thanksgiving is a time for people, including retail employees, to relax and spend time with loved ones.

Some stores are refusing to open their doors on Thanksgiving, including Barnes and Noble, Costco, Gamestop and Dillard’s. According to Mental Floss, Nordstrom distributed flyers last year that read, “We just like the idea of celebrating one holiday at a time.”

However, other retail chains are seizing the opportunity in the name of “helping their customers” get a head start on holiday shopping. But many experts think this shows stores need to compete with online shopping . Online purchases on Thanksgiving Day increased by 21 percent from 2012 to 2013, according to data collected by comScore, a digital research company.

Whatever the reason, the deals have arrived earlier this year, which makes planning a must. Be sure to check out each store’s website for the deals and to confirm hours. Below are tools to help you maximize your Black Friday, including store opening times and an infographic of the best deals. If that’s not enough, our Wallet Watcher, Alicia Markham, has plenty of deals.

Oh, before you get to the hours: If you’re hitting the stores in the wee hours of the morning, bring a coat. The overnight low is 48 degrees, but Black Friday will be beautiful at 80 degrees and sunny.

6 a.m., Thanksgiving Day: Kmart

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