But what was retail therapy like on South Tyneside in days gone by?
Here are 11 scenes of festive shopping scenes from over the decades.
Take a look – and why not go a step further and tell us all about your own favourite shops and stores from the past.
1. King Street in 1983
Who remembers scenes like these from King Street in 1983? Photo: Shields Gazette
2. Kay's in Frederick Street
A December 1980 photo from Kay's shop in Frederick Street. Does this bring back memories? Photo: Shields Gazette
3. Stamps in 1976
Stamps Newsagents where there was lots of choice including sweets and cards in 1976. Photo: Shields Gazette
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