AUBURN — With all the people out shopping before dawn Friday, it didn’t look like the economy is in a recession.

In fact, some were out because of the recession, seeking to stretch their tight budgets with the best deals they could find.

In this tough economy, most shoppers said they plan to spend the same or less than last year. No one said they’re spending more.

“I’ll probably spend the same. But we have cut back in the last couple of years,” said Lisa Brown of Lewiston, who was headed into Walmart to get a deal on a GPS.

Kevin LeClair of Buckfield said he and his wife will probably spend the same. They hit the early morning sales because it’s fun and they save. “Last year we saved almost $2,000. It adds up,” he said.

Joyce Michaud of Leeds, who doesn’t usually shop early on Black Friday, did so this year because she’s unemployed. She said she’ll be spending less.

Trish Sawyer of Leeds, who was buying “Guitar Hero” for the PlayStation on sale for $16, said she, too, is spending less. “Price is important.”

— Bonnie Washuk