Last-minute shoppers crowd grocery stores the day before Thanksgiving

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - If you still need a turkey, you are not alone. Grocery stores in Kansas City were packed on Thanksgiving eve with last-minute shoppers.

At Price Chopper, located at 1030 W 103rd Street, Best Choice turkeys are running 88 cents per pound, Honesuckles are $1.29 per pound and Butter Balls are $1.39 per pound. There are also vegetarian and gluten-free options integrated throughout the store.

“It is very exciting. It is one of the busiest days of the year, but it is also the most fun. Everyone is usually in a very good mood," manager Guy Steiner said. "They are getting ready for the biggest family gathering sometimes of the year, and the spirits are up.”

Some are choosing an easier route for Thanksgiving this year.

According to the National Restaurant Association, more than 14 million Americans will dine out for        Thanksgiving.

At Michael Forbes Bar and Grille in Brookside, Owner Forbes Cross said they have reservations for around 180 guests, but expect that number to reach 250.

“We serve a lot of people every day, and honestly, serving everyone the same thing is easier for us than having 200 people show up and order off a menu,” Cross said.

The National Restaurant Association said 46 percent of people plan to eat at someone else’s home.