Black Friday
Everything You Need to Know About Black Friday
Black Friday is a shopping phenomenon that kicks off the holiday season in the United States, known for jaw-dropping deals and massive crowds. Each year, retailers offer deep discounts, and shoppers flock to stores and websites in pursuit of the best deals. Here, we cover everything from the history of Black Friday to the best tips for navigating this shopping extravaganza.
- Friday, 29 November 2024
- Friday, 28 November 2025
- Friday, 27 November 2026
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday marks the day after Thanksgiving in the U.S., when retailers launch their biggest sales of the year. This shopping event offers consumers a chance to find steep discounts on items ranging from electronics to clothing.
The History of Black Friday
The tradition of Black Friday has its roots in the early 20th century. It was first popularized in Philadelphia during the 1950s. The term “Black Friday” was used by police to describe the heavy and disruptive traffic that occurred on the day after Thanksgiving.
How Black Friday Got Its Name
While “Black Friday” might sound ominous, it has a positive meaning for retailers. It’s a day when businesses “go into the black” financially, meaning they make a profit after being “in the red” for much of the year.
When is Black Friday 2024?
In 2024, Black Friday falls on November 29, the day after Thanksgiving. This annual event shifts each year, but it always takes place the Friday following Thanksgiving.
Why is Black Friday So Popular?
People are drawn to Black Friday for the significant savings. Retailers offer exclusive discounts and limited-time promotions, creating a sense of urgency that fuels the shopping frenzy. Plus, it’s the unofficial start to holiday shopping!
Black Friday Deals: What to Expect
You can expect discounts across a wide range of categories. Popular items include:
- Electronics (TVs, smartphones, and tablets)
- Home Appliances (kitchen gadgets, vacuums)
- Fashion (clothing, shoes, accessories)
- Toys (perfect for holiday gifting)
- Beauty Products (makeup, skincare)
Top Categories for Black Friday Deals
- Electronics: Major discounts on TVs, laptops, and tablets.
- Home Goods: Expect savings on everything from cookware to bedding.
- Apparel: Both high-end and fast-fashion brands participate.
- Toys and Games: A must for early holiday gift buyers.
- Health and Beauty: Look for deals on top-brand skincare and beauty tools.
In-Store vs. Online Shopping on Black Friday
With the rise of online shopping, many people skip the crowds and shop from home. However, some exclusive deals are only available in-store, making it a hard choice for deal hunters.
Pros and Cons of Black Friday Shopping
Pros
- Huge discounts across various categories
- Early access to holiday shopping deals
- Opportunity to save on high-ticket items
Cons
- Long lines and crowded stores
- Limited stock that sells out quickly
- Pressure to make fast purchasing decisions
How to Prepare for Black Friday
- Create a Budget: Set a limit for yourself to avoid overspending.
- Make a Shopping List: List priority items and rank them by importance.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many stores offer exclusive deals to email subscribers.
- Download Store Apps: Some retailers post app-only deals.
Tips for Shopping Online on Black Friday
- Start Early: Some sales start at midnight or even Thanksgiving evening.
- Bookmark Pages: Save links to desired products ahead of time.
- Use Multiple Devices: Have a backup device to prevent losing items in your cart.
- Look for Free Shipping: Take advantage of promotions that offer free shipping to save even more.
Avoiding Scams and Staying Safe
Scammers are prevalent during Black Friday. To avoid scams:
- Stick to reputable retailers.
- Use secure payment methods.
- Double-check URLs to ensure they are authentic.
The Rise of Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday, the Monday following Black Friday, offers online-only deals. It’s a chance for people to continue shopping without the hustle and bustle of in-store crowds.
What is Small Business Saturday?
Small Business Saturday, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encourages people to shop from local and small businesses, supporting the community.
Is Black Friday Worth It?
Whether Black Friday is worth it depends on your shopping goals. For those looking to score big on high-priced items or cross off holiday gift lists, it can be a golden opportunity. Just remember to stay prepared and mindful of your budget.
FAQs
- What is the history behind Black Friday? Black Friday originated in Philadelphia and was popularized in the 1950s as a term for heavy traffic after Thanksgiving.
- Are Black Friday deals better in-store or online? Both in-store and online have their perks, but online shopping often offers convenience and early access.
- How long do Black Friday sales last? Many sales begin on Thanksgiving and extend through Cyber Monday, offering multiple days to shop.
- Can I return Black Friday purchases? Most stores allow returns, but some offer limited return policies on Black Friday items.
- What items are typically discounted the most on Black Friday? Electronics, home appliances, and apparel generally see the highest discounts.
