The holidays are almost upon us, which means sales will soon be calling out to you from every retail store in the area.  A game plan is needed when embarking on day-after-Thanksgiving shopping. Here's a list of popular stores to consider in your Nov. 23 shopping spree.   

Best Buy, opening at 5:00 a.m.

This is probably the best and most popular store to get electronics.  There are great deals storewide from digital cameras to computers and new DVDs as low as $6.99.  However, it will be crowded because the sales are so popular.  Get there early and expect lines, but in the end you won't regret it.

Kohl's, opening at 4:00 a.m.

Almost everything in the store will be marked up to 60 percent off.  This store is great for family gifts but you probably don`t need to get there right when they open because there are no time-sensitive sale items. So waiting until at least the sun rises won't hurt you.

Old Navy, opening at 5:00 a.m.

There are little if no special sales going on, but this store is giving away a special gift to early shoppers.  They will be giving away a free MP3 player with a purchase of $20 or more while supplies last.  This in itself is an incentive to get there early.

Target, opening at 6:00 a.m.

There will be storewide sales going on in every department.  If you need to shop for kids or for home furnishings, this store should be on the top of your list.  CDs and DVDs will also be marked down but the supply is limited.  This store has a great variety of discounted items and the earlier you get there, the better.

Toys "R" Us, opening at 5:00 a.m.

Only go to this store if you have kids to shop for.  If you do, you won't regret getting there early.  Amazing deals await you and make sure to bring your "Toys "R" Us Big Toy Book" with you. 

West Town Mall, opening at 5:00 a.m.

This does not mean that all the stores will be open.  Some are not opening their doors until a few hours later.  This will probably be the most crowded spot in Knoxville that day.  Unless you have a specific store you need to go to, the mall could be avoided unless you enjoy horrendous parking, guaranteed long lines and stress.

Wal-mart, 5:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wal-mart will be having door buster sales only during the above hours.  This predominantly involves electronics and is a great way to get inexpensive DVD players and TVs.  But this is the only reason you should go early.  Other sales will be continuing during the rest of the day.  If you are going to go, have an idea of what you specifically need because this is another hot spot with guarenteed crowds.   

Apple

No listing has been given as too what time the store will be opening in the West Town Mall but Apple has announced that markdowns will occur.  Last year, many Ipods were sold at reduced prices.  If you are going to the mall, make sure to check out this store and you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find.

Circuit City , opening at 5:00 a.m

There won't be as many deals as Best Buy but it may be less crowded. 

TJMaxx, opening at 8:00 a.m

The store has been recently filled with new merchandise. There are no special sales, but the prices are already low, seven jeans for $19.99 low.  Need I say more?

These stores are only the highlights of the Black Friday phenomenon.  There are others out there so keep your eyes open for new advertisements. Before you go make sure to check the newspaper for extra coupons to save even more.