The United States is in full shopping mode now. And you can easily find long lines and a variety of deals. But retailers have changed their strategies and Thanksgiving shopping anymore isn't just about Black Friday. 
 
It is THE time of the year and Americans are taking no chances. Bargain hunters are securing spots and camping outside big-box stores hours in advance.

Retailers now are starting their deals before the holiday kicks in. Macy's Department Store in midtown Manhattan for the first time, opened its doors at 5 pm Thursday, one hour earlier than it used to.

Across the Hudson River, in Deptford New Jersey, shoppers lined up outside Best Buy, waiting to be the first to enter when the electronics giant opened for business Thursday evening.
 
"We have been here since Tuesday. Tuesday night." A guest said.
 
Analysts say they are anticipating strong shopping during the holiday season.

The National Retail Federation said 137 million Americans or 60 percent of the country's population, plan to buy something during the Thanksgiving weekend.

"We are forecasting 656 billion dollars as what the retail industry's going to make during the holidays. That number puts in an increase of three point six percent in sales. When we look at just Black Friday. Black Friday is going to be the best time to buy all things technology. From large ones like televisions, to small washers and dryers. "said Ana Smith, spokesperson of National Retail Federation.

America's 15 largest retailers put out black Friday promotions three days earlier than last year, and sent 15 percent more email promotions trying to get consumers.

Many shoppers echoed the move, saying the shopping season begins even before the holiday session, and last much longer.

"I think the timing is a little earlier this year. Some discounts began one week before Black Friday."A Chinese guest said.

"I think Black Friday is not confined to a single day alone. It starts with November and lasts until Valentine's day in February. Black Friday is more of symbolic of this crazy shopping festival. " A tourist said,

Many retailers have adapted their strategies, to spread their discounts more evenly across the holiday season rather than on Black Friday alone.

From November 1st to the 22nd, retail sales hit 25.6 billion US dollars. That's almost the same as the estimated sales for Black Friday. Surveys show that over half of the consumers have checked their holiday shopping list before Black Friday.