AUSTIN, Texas - While many people spent their day shopping for great deals, others are already celebrating Christmas.

Hundreds lined up in their Christmas outfits, anticipating the big guest at the Long Center for the “Santa on the Terrace” event.

"I feel excited that I get to tell him what I want for Christmas, and I hope he brings it,” said Grayson Ramirez.

The line wrapped around the building and down the street, some waiting for more than an hour to meet Old St. Nick, but for many, it was well worth it.

The kids shared a few presents they're hoping will be under the tree this Christmas.

"I want some Star Wars stuff and a telescope,” said one child.

After the meet and greet, kids wrote letters just in case Santa forgets what they asked him for.

It was a lot of waiting for kids, but an even longer day for Santa, who says he needs to get back to work.

“I will go this afternoon, take a brief nap and then I will get ready and head on back to the North Pole and start preparing. Its takes a lot of preparation to make that magic last and happen on Christmas Eve,” said Santa Claus.