Black Friday
November 28, Friday
Retail Significance
Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year in the U.S., with many stores opening early—sometimes as early as midnight or even on Thanksgiving evening—to accommodate eager shoppers. Retailers offer deep discounts on a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, home goods, and toys. The event has become a critical part of the retail calendar, often accounting for a large portion of annual sales.
Consumer Behavior
Shoppers often plan their purchases in advance, studying advertisements and comparing prices to find the best deals. Some consumers line up outside stores hours before they open, while others prefer to shop online to avoid crowds. The rise of e-commerce has led to the growth of online Black Friday sales, with many retailers offering the same or even better deals on their websites.
Global Expansion
Although Black Friday originated in the United States, it has gained popularity in other countries around the world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Europe and Asia. International retailers have adopted the concept to boost sales, often adapting the timing and marketing to fit local customs and shopping habits.
Related Events
Black Friday is closely followed by other shopping events such as Small Business Saturday, which encourages consumers to support local businesses, and Cyber Monday, which focuses on online deals. Together, these events form a long weekend of shopping that significantly impacts consumer spending and retail performance.
Criticism and Controversy
Despite its popularity, Black Friday has faced criticism for promoting consumerism and encouraging aggressive shopping behavior. Reports of overcrowded stores, long lines, and even physical altercations have raised concerns about safety and the social impact of the event. Additionally, some retailers and consumers have pushed back against the trend by choosing not to participate or by promoting more sustainable shopping practices.
Black Friday continues to evolve, with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements shaping how and where people shop. Whether in-store or online, it remains a major event in the retail industry and a key date on the calendar for shoppers and businesses alike.
Black Friday in other years
- 2022 November 25, Friday
- 2023 November 24, Friday
- 2024 November 29, Friday
- 2026 November 27, Friday