Do you know what a Black Friday is? Get to know more about one of the best events to shop with deals and discounts!
Black Friday has evolved from being a shopping event that happens in the U.S. into a global phenomenon. The date marks an important moment in the retail calendar, where consumers can find major discounts on a wide range of products.
So, whether you’re in the U.S., UK, or many other part of the world, Black Friday offers a unique opportunity to shop smart and save big. Find out everything you need to know about it, and with careful planning and a strategic approach, you can take advantage of the best deals.
What is Black Friday?
It is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year. It marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season and is famous for massive discounts on all kinds of products, from electronics to clothing and home goods. Retailers, both in-store and online, take advantage of the rush by offering exclusive, limited-time deals to attract customers, making it an essential day for consumers looking to score bargains.
The term “Black Friday” originated in the 1960s in Philadelphia, where it was used by the police to describe the chaotic traffic that ensued the day after Thanksgiving due to the flood of shoppers. Over time, the term evolved to reflect retailers’ financial gains – moving from being “in the red” (indicating losses) to being “in the black” (indicating profits) thanks to the surge in sales.
When Does It Happen?
In the United States, following the traditional schedule of occurring annually on the Friday after Thanksgiving, this year’s Black Friday will take place on November 29. The date may vary slightly depending on the country, but in most places, it falls between the end of November and early December.
The day has expanded beyond just a one-day sale, with many businesses offering deals well before and after the actual date, creating what’s known as “Black Week” or even “Black November”. Some major retailers also continue the discounts through the following Monday, known as Cyber Monday, which focuses on online deals.
What Countries Have It?
Although Black Friday originated in the United States, the event has now become a global phenomenon, with approximately 129 countries adopting their own versions of this shopping holiday. Here’s some parts of the world where it happens:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- Brazil
- South Africa
What Kind of Deals Can You Get on Black Friday?
Black Friday offers something for everyone, with discounts available on nearly every type of product. In recent years, subscription services, travel packages, and even financial products have been featured. As competition among retailers grows, shoppers can find increasingly diverse and surprising deals. Some of the most popular categories include:
- Electronics: it is famous for slashing prices on gadgets and tech devices, including TVs, laptops, smartphones, and gaming consoles;
- Fashion: clothing retailers use it as an opportunity to clear out their fall and winter stock, offering deep discounts on everything from designer brands to everyday wear;
- Home Appliances: major home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and kitchen gadgets see significant price reductions;
- Toys: with Christmas around the corner, it is the perfect time for parents to stock up on toys and games for their children;
- Beauty Products: many beauty brands and retailers offer significant discounts on cosmetics, skincare, and haircare products;
- Furniture: it’s also a great time to find deals on furniture, home decor, and bedding.
Tips for Black Friday Shopping
- Plan Ahead: research the items you want to purchase. Knowing the regular price will help you determine if you’re getting a good deal or not;
- Create a Budget: it’s easy to get carried away with all the discounts. Set a budget to avoid overspending and stick to it;
- Sign Up for Newsletters: many retailers offer exclusive discounts to newsletter subscribers or loyalty program members. Signing up early ensures you don’t miss out on these deals;
- Use Price Comparison Tools: there are several apps and websites that allow you to compare prices from different retailers, ensuring you get the best deal;
- Check Return Policies: before purchasing, ensure that the retailer has a clear and reasonable return policy, especially for big-ticket items;
- Stay Safe: if you’re shopping online, make sure to use secure websites and avoid clicking on suspicious links or emails. Use credit cards or trusted payment gateways for added security.