Shopper Vanessa Flanagan, who finished her Christmas shopping last week, said she was more organised this year than any other.

“It’s not too hard when you know what you have to get and you just go and do it,” she said.

Mrs Flanagan said the only battle she had faced was parking.

Customer Dolores Mlinaric agreed and said she had had to lug a big bag of gifts to the SS & A Club car park.

Both said they were feeling relaxed this Christmas and they felt there was a “laid back” air around the city.

“It’s not a stressful vibe, it’s been more pleasant than usual,” Ms Mlinaric said.

The Christmas rush has been obvious in central Albury, with thousands of people relaxing at the Christmas Family Fun Day in QEII Square on Saturday.

Albury Central co-ordinator Amanda Van Werkhoven said the idea of the event was to encourage people to do their Christmas shopping in Albury.

“We’re here to support business and without local traders we would lose local people,” she said.

Part owner of 2 Grey Birds, Jo Gray, said this year had been busier than last year.

“There has definitely been more foot traffic,” she said.

Ms Gray said small businesses relied and thrived on the season.

“It helps businesses plan and prepare for next year,” she said.

“You can gauge what people are buying and if you are on the right track with what you’re selling.”

Ms Gray said the Albury Central event brought more people into the city and they seemed to be happy and all sharing the spirit of Christmas.