On the Friday after Thanksgiving, the quiet family gatherings are over. Instead, you will see lines in front of shopping centers and stores all across the country. Are they giving away freebies? Not quite, but almost!
Black Friday is the biggest shopping event of the year, and attracts bargain hunters with amazing deals. Even weeks before this shopping event, companies start spreading the word – and not only in the USA. Black Friday has become an international phenomenon that now takes place all over the world.
In this article, you will learn all about the origins of this retail fest made in USA, how Black Friday is “celebrated”, and which offers lie in store for you – from clothes and books to TVs and new Airpods.
Black Friday – Origins and History
The history of Black Friday goes back to the 1950s, when the USA saw remarkable economic growth after the end of World War II. “Work hard, and consume” was the mantra that also included Christmas gifts for the family.
Clever companies had already noticed a trend: namely that most Americans started their Christmas shopping after Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday in November. Parades played a major role in “nudging” consumers, as they featured – and still feature – the cart of Santa Claus: a visible sign that Christmas is getting close, and you better get your presents now!
But why “Black” Friday? Well, the origin of this name is not clear. Some newspapers were already using it in 1951, alluding to the fact that many workers called in sick on that day. For policemen, this was also a dark day, mostly due to all the traffic jams and the chaos brought by thousands of shoppers.
There are more theories: for example, that the hordes of customers looked like a black mass from a distance – or that this Friday helped shop-owners “be in the black”. It was in the 1970s and 80s that the name really caught on and Black Friday was advertised as the biggest shopping day of the year. Not surprisingly, attempts to rename it “Big Friday” all failed.
At this point, we should probably touch on the phenomenon of doorbusting: On Black Friday, many customers are waiting in line long before opening time to snatch limited offers. When the doors finally swing open, chaotic scenes occur as hordes of shoppers stampede into the store. There have been fights and even shootings over the best items – nothing for the faint of heart.
The economic role of Black Friday has not waned. Today, however, many Americans follow the digital trend. While revenue reaches new heights every year, less and less customers visit physical stores. Instead, online shopping is at a record level – even more so in the aftermath of the COVID Pandemic.
Black Friday – Date and Opening Hours
Black Friday takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, which, depending on the year, falls between November 23 and November 29.
Here are some dates for future Black Fridays:
- Black Friday 2026: November 27
- Black Friday 2027: November 26
- Black Friday 2028: November 24
- Black Friday 2029: November 23
- Black Friday 2030: November 29
By the way: A few years ago the trend of antedating Black Friday came up: Stores like Target and Walmart started to open at midnight, and finally, on Thanksgiving eve. This trend, however, did not enjoy huge popularity, so for the most part, “Black Thursday” is not existent anymore.
Traditionally, stores only open on Black Friday – early in the morning, that is. Some of them are ready for business at 5 am, at others you have to wait 2–3 hours more. Once inside, you can take your time, as most shops do not close before 9 pm on that day. Some are even open until midnight.
Unlike Thanksgiving, Black Friday is not a federal holiday. However, opening hours for government offices, post offices and banks can vary by location and institution, so check before making a trip. Many Americans spend the entire Thanksgiving weekend with their families. It is therefore a good idea to schedule important business meetings on another date.
Black Friday – Sales and Offers in the USA
You are traveling to the USA for Black Friday and want to celebrate this occasion? Then, you can choose from a never-ending variety of sales and offers. Here are some shopping ideas for Black Friday:
- Let us start with the company known for its famous Thanksgiving Day parade: At Macy´s, you can expect discounts of up to 70 % – for example, on jewelry, bags or clothing for women, men and children.
- Of course, Walmart, America’s most well-known supermarket, also offers Black Friday deals. On average, the discount is 30 % – not bad if you consider the already cheap prices. Household appliances, computers, video games and books are only some items that can be had for a bargain on that day.
- Target is another worth-while shop on Black Friday – and offers discounts of 30 % or more on items like clothes, appliances and toys.
- And do not forget the retail giant Best Buy: Here, you can shop for TVs, laptops, smartphones and kitchen utensils for record-low prices.
- Are you looking for clothes, cosmetics, nutrition or other lifestyle products? Then, look no further than Kohl´s Black Friday Sales.
- November is a great time to stock up on Christmas decoration – for example, at Lowe´s Black Friday Sale. And while you are at it, do not forget to check out the tools, small appliances and home decor.
If you are in Florida on Black Friday, you should head for one of the state’s big shopping centers: Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, for instance, offers discounts of up to 70 % – just like Miromar Outlet or Sanibel Outlets. Luckily, Florida is a perfect state for outdoor activities, even in November – and what better place to purchase fishing rods, tents and clothes than the Bass Pro Shop? Here, you can snatch the best offers as early as 5 a.m. on Black Friday.
Black Friday – Online Sales
Of course, in this day and age, you do not have to visit a physical store to enjoy great offers. Instead, just fulfill your shopping dreams online – without waiting in line and the fear of getting trampled to death. Luckily, most shops in the USA offer the same prices online and in-store.
It gets even better, though: You are not confined to the actual date of Black Friday. A good example: Amazon Prime Day commonly held in June or July. And do not forget the Cyber Monday following Thanksgiving. This day is perfect for purchasing fairly-priced electronics online
Black Friday FAQ – Frequently asked Questions
What is Black Friday?
On Black Friday, many stores in the US attract customers with special sales and longer opening hours. Since the 1950s, it has traditionally marked the beginning of Christmas shopping season.
Which companies participate in Black Friday?
The better question would be: Which companies do not? There is hardly a store that wants to miss out on Black Friday sales, and most often, you can strike the same bargains locally and online.
When is Black Friday?
Black Friday takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, which marks the fourth Thursday in November. This means, that Black Friday falls between November 23 and November 29.
When does Black Friday start?
In the USA, most stores open early on Black Friday: for example, from 5 to 8 a.m. There are many limited offers, so traditionally, customers line up in front of the stores hours before opening time.
How long does Black Friday last?
On Black Friday, most stores operate with longer hours and only close late, most commonly from 9 pm to midnight.
