Snow fell in Minot Friday afternoon and continued again Saturday afternoon, adding a fresh blanket of snow to the ground just in time for the holidays. Minot also saw cooler temperatures as they fell to 24 degrees by 4 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.

Whether planned or by accident, many found themselves trying to park in crowded parking lots and standing in long lines to get their final gifts of the season.

Larry Durr and his family, of Minot, headed to Dakota Square Mall Saturday to finalize their Christmas shopping, which started last week. Durr said this was a normal occurrence for his family.

“The weekend before Christmas (is) the worst time probably,” Durr said with a chuckle. “We started some presents a week or so ago but not that much so we’re finishing up our shopping.”

Ashton Gerard/MDN Janae Holland of Minot adds some clearance Christmas decorations to her basket Saturday at Target.

Others, like Janae Holland, had their Christmas shopping done weeks in advance but found themselves back at the mall for one or two last minute items.

“My son decided last minute to change what he wanted for Christmas, so I (was) on a mission for Buzz Lightyear,” Holland said as she patted the Buzz Lightyear toy tucked safely in her basket. “He asked Santa for that yesterday so I don’t want him to be disappointed.”

Though the mall was hectic, the overall vibe seemed pleasant and chipper.

“It’s nice, no pushing or anything like that,” Durr said. “Very busy but it’s not bad at all. Not like other big malls in other cities you go to. They’re a little bit more rude.”

Even with the crowds and weather, people still took time to enjoy the day out with their families. Kids played in the play area and families waited in line to take photos and talk with Santa. Jax & Henley featured live music by Johnny Vincent in its store to help spread some holiday cheer.

Ashton Gerard/MDN Loren Jackson, left, and LeAnn Klein of Minot take advantage of clearance Christmas decorations at Target Saturday.

Dakota Square Mall will be open today from noon to 8 p.m. and Christmas Eve from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for those who still need to cross final items off their Christmas lists. Other stores around town also are welcoming shoppers right up until Christmas.

Ashton Gerard/MDN With an energy drink in hand, Stephanie Beauchamp of Surrey mulls over the purchase of a Nerf gun Saturday in Minot.