What Day Is Black Friday? Dates, Tips, and History

Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving, a major shopping day offering huge discounts, and what.edu.vn is here to answer all your questions about it. This article will dive into when it happens, how to prepare, and its history, helping you make the most of Black Friday sales. Get ready to explore shopping tips, deal hunting strategies, and historical facts, all while considering budgeting and online shopping security.

1. What Day of the Week is Black Friday?

Black Friday always falls on a Friday. Specifically, it is the Friday immediately following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. So, Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. You can find incredible deals on everything from electronics to clothing.

To delve deeper, here’s a breakdown:

Tradition: The tradition of Black Friday began in the US but has expanded globally.
Date: It always follows Thanksgiving, making it the fourth Friday in November.
Impact: This day is crucial for retailers, often marking the start of their most profitable period.
Shopping Behavior: Many consumers plan their shopping well in advance to take advantage of special offers.
Online vs. In-Store: While it started as an in-store event, online Black Friday sales have become equally significant.

2. What Date is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday 2024 will be on November 29th. This is the day after Thanksgiving. Expect retailers to start advertising their Black Friday deals weeks in advance, so keep an eye out for early announcements.

Several factors influence the timing and impact of Black Friday each year:

Economic Conditions: The overall state of the economy plays a significant role in consumer spending during Black Friday.
Retail Strategies: Retailers carefully plan their promotions and discounts to maximize sales and attract customers.
Consumer Trends: Changing consumer preferences and shopping habits can influence the types of products that are most popular during Black Friday.
Online Competition: The growth of e-commerce has intensified competition among retailers, leading to more aggressive online deals.
Global Events: Major global events, such as economic crises or pandemics, can impact supply chains and consumer behavior during Black Friday.

3. What Date is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 will be on November 28th. Remember that this date always follows the fourth Thursday of November, which is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. Planning ahead can help you strategize your shopping and snag the best deals.

Consider these points when preparing for Black Friday 2025:

Early Planning: Start researching potential purchases well in advance to identify desired products and track their prices.
Budgeting: Set a budget to avoid overspending and ensure you only buy what you need.
Deal Tracking: Monitor retailers’ websites and social media for early Black Friday deal announcements.
Comparison Shopping: Compare prices across multiple retailers to find the best possible deals.
Online Security: Be cautious of online scams and only shop on reputable websites to protect your personal and financial information.

4. What is the Significance of Black Friday?

Black Friday’s significance lies in its role as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season. It’s a time when retailers offer substantial discounts, attracting shoppers eager to start their Christmas shopping. This event is a major economic indicator, reflecting consumer confidence and spending habits.

Key aspects of its significance include:

Economic Impact: Black Friday sales provide a significant boost to the retail industry, influencing overall economic performance.
Consumer Behavior: It reflects consumer willingness to spend, showing economic sentiment and financial confidence.
Retail Strategy: Retailers use Black Friday to clear out old inventory and attract new customers with special promotions.
Global Trend: While originating in the US, Black Friday has become a global shopping phenomenon.
Cultural Event: It has evolved into a cultural event, with some shoppers viewing it as a tradition or an opportunity for social interaction.

5. Why is it Called Black Friday?

The term “Black Friday” has a couple of origin stories. Originally, it referred to the chaotic traffic and crowded conditions following Thanksgiving Day. Retailers later embraced the term, associating “black” with going “into the black” (becoming profitable) as holiday shopping began.

Different theories explain the name’s origin:

Traffic Congestion: One theory suggests the term originated in Philadelphia, referring to heavy traffic and pedestrian congestion after Thanksgiving.
Retail Profitability: Another theory attributes the name to retailers going “into the black,” meaning they start making a profit after a year of operating “in the red.”
Marketing Tactic: Retailers eventually embraced the term and turned it into a marketing tactic to promote sales and attract customers.
Historical Context: The specific origins of the term remain debated, but it has evolved over time to represent the start of holiday shopping.
Cultural Association: Regardless of its exact origin, Black Friday has become a cultural phenomenon associated with discounts and shopping frenzy.

6. How Did Black Friday Start?

Black Friday’s roots can be traced back to the mid-20th century in the United States. Post-Thanksgiving Day was initially just a day off for many, but retailers started to see the potential for sales. Over time, it evolved into a major shopping event with deep discounts and promotions.

Here’s a more detailed look at its evolution:

Early Beginnings: The concept started with retailers offering small discounts to attract shoppers after Thanksgiving.
Expansion: Over the years, the event expanded in scope and scale, becoming a national phenomenon.
Marketing Efforts: Retailers began to aggressively promote Black Friday sales, attracting more and more shoppers.
Globalization: The concept spread globally, with retailers in other countries adopting the Black Friday tradition.
Digital Transformation: The rise of e-commerce transformed Black Friday, making online deals a significant part of the event.

7. What Time Do Black Friday Sales Start?

The start times for Black Friday sales vary widely. Some retailers start their sales online as early as Thanksgiving Day, while others open their physical stores in the early morning hours of Black Friday. Check specific store hours and online start times to plan your shopping accordingly.

Here’s a breakdown of typical start times:

Online Sales: Many retailers launch their online Black Friday sales on Thanksgiving Day or even earlier in the week.
Early Morning Openings: Some physical stores open their doors in the early morning hours of Black Friday, often at 5:00 AM or even earlier.
Door Buster Deals: These are limited-time offers available only to early shoppers, typically within the first few hours of store opening.
Extended Hours: Many retailers extend their hours on Black Friday, staying open late into the night to accommodate shoppers.
Varied Schedules: Start times can vary significantly between retailers, so check the specific store’s hours before heading out.

8. What Types of Deals Can I Expect on Black Friday?

Expect to find a wide variety of deals on Black Friday, including discounts on electronics, clothing, home goods, and more. “Door buster” deals, limited-time offers, and percentage-off sales are common. Keep an eye out for special promotions and bundles.

Here’s a detailed look at the types of deals you can expect:

Percentage-Off Sales: These offer a fixed percentage discount on select items or entire product categories.
Dollar-Off Discounts: These provide a specific dollar amount discount on qualifying purchases.
Bundle Deals: These combine multiple products into a single package at a discounted price.
Clearance Sales: These offer steep discounts on overstocked or discontinued items.
Limited-Time Offers: These are special deals available only for a limited time, often within the first few hours of Black Friday.

9. Where Can I Find the Best Black Friday Deals?

The best Black Friday deals can be found at a variety of retailers, both online and in physical stores. Major department stores, electronics retailers, and online marketplaces are all popular destinations for Black Friday shoppers. Comparison shopping is key to finding the best offers.

Here’s a breakdown of where to look:

Major Retailers: Large department stores like Walmart, Target, and Macy’s offer a wide variety of Black Friday deals.
Electronics Retailers: Best Buy, Amazon, and other electronics retailers offer discounts on TVs, laptops, and other gadgets.
Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay host numerous Black Friday deals from various sellers.
Specialty Stores: Specialty stores like Sephora and Home Depot offer discounts on specific product categories.
Local Businesses: Don’t forget to check local businesses for unique Black Friday deals and support your community.

10. How Can I Prepare for Black Friday Shopping?

To prepare for Black Friday shopping, start by making a list of the items you want to purchase. Research prices ahead of time to identify good deals and set a budget to avoid overspending. Sign up for email newsletters and follow retailers on social media to stay informed about upcoming sales.

Key preparation steps include:

Create a Shopping List: List the items you want to buy to stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend and stick to your budget.
Research Prices: Track prices of desired items to identify genuine discounts during Black Friday.
Sign Up for Newsletters: Subscribe to retailer’s email newsletters to receive exclusive deals and early access.
Follow Retailers on Social Media: Stay updated on the latest Black Friday news and deals through social media.

11. What Are Some Tips for Shopping on Black Friday?

Some tips for shopping on Black Friday include shopping early, comparing prices, and reading reviews before making a purchase. Be aware of return policies and potential restocking fees. Consider shopping online to avoid crowds and long lines.

Here’s a summary of essential shopping tips:

Shop Early: Get a head start by shopping online or arriving at stores early to secure the best deals.
Compare Prices: Use online tools and apps to compare prices across different retailers before making a purchase.
Read Reviews: Check product reviews to ensure you’re buying quality items that meet your needs.
Review Return Policies: Understand the retailer’s return policies and any associated fees before making a purchase.
Shop Online: Consider shopping online to avoid crowds and long lines while still accessing Black Friday deals.

12. How Can I Avoid Overspending on Black Friday?

To avoid overspending on Black Friday, stick to your budget and avoid impulse purchases. Focus on buying only the items on your shopping list. Be wary of limited-time offers that create a sense of urgency and pressure to buy.

Here’s how to stay within your financial limits:

Set a Budget: Create a detailed budget that outlines how much you can spend on Black Friday shopping.
Avoid Impulse Buys: Stick to your shopping list and resist the urge to buy items you don’t need.
Be Wary of Urgency Tactics: Don’t fall for limited-time offers that pressure you into making hasty decisions.
Use Cash or Debit: Consider using cash or a debit card to avoid accumulating credit card debt.
Track Your Spending: Keep track of your purchases throughout the day to ensure you stay within budget.

13. Is it Better to Shop Online or In-Store on Black Friday?

Whether it’s better to shop online or in-store on Black Friday depends on your preferences. Shopping online offers convenience and avoids crowds, while in-store shopping allows you to see and touch products before buying. Weigh the pros and cons to decide what works best for you.

Consider these factors when making your decision:

Convenience: Online shopping offers the convenience of shopping from the comfort of your home, avoiding crowds and lines.
Product Inspection: In-store shopping allows you to physically see and touch products before buying, ensuring you’re satisfied with your purchase.
Inventory: Online stores may offer a wider selection of products and inventory compared to physical stores.
Shipping Costs: Online purchases may incur shipping costs, while in-store purchases allow you to take your items home immediately.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best option depends on your personal preferences and shopping style.

14. How Does Cyber Monday Compare to Black Friday?

Cyber Monday, which follows Black Friday, is another major shopping day focused on online deals. While Black Friday originally centered around in-store shopping, Cyber Monday was created to encourage online spending. Both events offer significant discounts, but Cyber Monday is exclusively online.

Here’s a comparison between Cyber Monday and Black Friday:

Focus: Black Friday traditionally focuses on in-store shopping, while Cyber Monday is exclusively online.
Origins: Black Friday evolved from post-Thanksgiving Day sales, while Cyber Monday was created to promote online spending.
Deals: Both events offer significant discounts, but Cyber Monday deals may be more focused on technology and electronics.
Convenience: Cyber Monday offers the convenience of shopping from home, while Black Friday may require braving crowds in stores.
Consumer Behavior: Many consumers shop on both Black Friday and Cyber Monday, taking advantage of deals both online and in-store.

15. Are Black Friday Deals Really Worth It?

Whether Black Friday deals are “worth it” depends on the specific deals and your individual needs. Some retailers offer genuine discounts on desirable items, while others may inflate prices before marking them down. Research and compare prices to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Consider these factors when evaluating Black Friday deals:

Genuine Discounts: Look for items with significant price reductions compared to their regular prices.
Inflated Prices: Be aware that some retailers may inflate prices before Black Friday, then mark them down to create the illusion of a discount.
Product Quality: Check reviews and ratings to ensure you’re buying quality items that meet your needs.
Needs vs. Wants: Focus on buying items you genuinely need rather than getting caught up in the excitement of the sales.
Long-Term Value: Consider the long-term value of the items you’re buying and whether they will provide lasting satisfaction.

16. What Should I Buy on Black Friday?

What you should buy on Black Friday depends on your individual needs and preferences. Electronics, appliances, and home goods are popular choices due to significant discounts. Clothing, accessories, and gifts are also common purchases during Black Friday sales.

Here are some popular product categories to consider:

Electronics: TVs, laptops, smartphones, and other electronics often see significant discounts on Black Friday.
Appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances may be available at reduced prices.
Home Goods: Furniture, bedding, and other home goods are popular choices for Black Friday shoppers.
Clothing and Accessories: Retailers offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories for the whole family.
Gifts: Many shoppers use Black Friday to get a head start on holiday gift shopping.

17. How Can I Stay Safe While Shopping on Black Friday?

To stay safe while shopping on Black Friday, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from theft or scams. Keep your personal belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Shop online on secure websites and be wary of phishing emails or fake deals.

Here’s how to ensure a safe shopping experience:

Be Aware of Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be mindful of potential hazards or suspicious activity.
Secure Personal Belongings: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure and out of sight.
Avoid Carrying Cash: Use credit or debit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash.
Shop on Secure Websites: Only shop on websites with secure connections (look for “https” in the URL).
Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails offering deals or promotions, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

18. How to Score the Best Black Friday Tech Deals

Scoring the best Black Friday tech deals requires research and strategy. Start by identifying the specific tech products you want, such as TVs, laptops, or smartphones. Compare prices across different retailers and look for deals that offer significant discounts or bundled accessories.

Follow these steps for tech deal success:

Identify Desired Products: List the specific tech products you want to buy, such as TVs, laptops, or smartphones.
Compare Prices: Compare prices across different retailers to identify the best deals and discounts.
Look for Bundled Accessories: Some deals may include bundled accessories like headphones or cases.
Check Reviews: Read product reviews to ensure you’re buying quality tech products that meet your needs.
Shop Early: Be ready to shop early, either online or in-store, to secure the best tech deals before they sell out.

19. Are There Black Friday Sales in July?

Yes, some retailers have started offering “Black Friday in July” sales events. These sales aim to replicate the excitement and discounts of Black Friday during the summer months. Keep an eye out for these mid-year opportunities to snag deals on various products.

Here’s what you need to know about Black Friday in July:

Mid-Year Event: Black Friday in July is a mid-year sales event offered by some retailers.
Summer Discounts: It aims to replicate the excitement and discounts of Black Friday during the summer months.
Limited Scope: While it offers deals, it may not be as extensive or widespread as the traditional Black Friday event.
Retailer Participation: Not all retailers participate in Black Friday in July, so check with your favorite stores to see if they’re offering deals.
Opportunity to Save: It provides an opportunity to save money on various products outside of the traditional holiday shopping season.

20. What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday is a shopping holiday held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encouraging consumers to support local and small businesses. It aims to promote community engagement and economic growth by directing holiday spending towards local businesses.

Key points about Small Business Saturday:

Support Local Businesses: Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to support local and small businesses.
Community Engagement: It aims to promote community engagement and economic growth.
Holiday Spending: It directs holiday spending towards local businesses rather than large corporations.
Saturday After Thanksgiving: It is held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, following Black Friday.
Economic Impact: It helps boost local economies by supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.

21. Are Black Friday Prices the Lowest of the Year?

While Black Friday often offers significant discounts, it’s not always guaranteed that prices are the absolute lowest of the year. Some products may see further price reductions during post-holiday sales or clearance events. Compare prices and consider your needs before making a purchase.

Factors to consider when assessing Black Friday prices:

Price Fluctuations: Prices can fluctuate throughout the year, and some products may see further reductions after Black Friday.
Clearance Events: Post-holiday clearance events often offer steep discounts on remaining inventory.
Seasonal Sales: Seasonal sales like end-of-season clearances may also offer competitive prices.
Retailer Strategies: Retailers may strategically price items differently throughout the year to maximize profits.
Individual Needs: Consider your individual needs and preferences when deciding whether to buy during Black Friday or wait for future sales.

22. What Are Door Buster Deals?

“Door buster” deals are limited-time offers available only to early shoppers, typically within the first few hours of a store opening on Black Friday. These deals often feature significant discounts on popular items to attract a large crowd of shoppers.

Key characteristics of door buster deals:

Limited Availability: Door buster deals are available only in limited quantities, so shoppers must act fast to secure them.
Early Shoppers: They are typically offered only to shoppers who arrive early at stores on Black Friday.
Significant Discounts: Door buster deals often feature deep discounts on popular items.
Crowd Attraction: They are designed to attract a large crowd of shoppers to stores.
Time-Sensitive: Door buster deals are typically time-sensitive, lasting only for a few hours or until supplies run out.

23. How Can I Find Out About Black Friday Sales in Advance?

To find out about Black Friday sales in advance, sign up for email newsletters from your favorite retailers and follow them on social media. Many retailers release previews of their Black Friday deals weeks or even months before the event.

Here are some strategies for staying informed:

Sign Up for Newsletters: Subscribe to email newsletters from retailers to receive exclusive deals and early access.
Follow on Social Media: Follow your favorite retailers on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Check Retailer Websites: Visit retailer websites regularly to check for Black Friday sale announcements.
Use Deal Websites: Use websites and apps that track Black Friday deals and discounts.
Set Up Alerts: Set up email or social media alerts for specific retailers or products.

24. What Should I Wear on Black Friday?

What you should wear on Black Friday depends on whether you’re shopping online or in physical stores. If you’re shopping in stores, wear comfortable shoes and clothing that allows you to move easily. If you’re shopping online, you can wear whatever you like!

Here are some tips for choosing your Black Friday attire:

Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes that can withstand long periods of walking and standing in lines.
Easy-to-Move Clothing: Choose clothing that allows you to move easily and comfortably through crowded stores.
Layers: Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing to the temperature inside and outside the store.
Hands-Free Bag: Consider carrying a hands-free bag like a backpack or crossbody bag to keep your belongings secure.
Online Shopping Attire: If you’re shopping online, wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and relaxed!

25. What are Some Common Black Friday Scams to Avoid?

Common Black Friday scams to avoid include phishing emails, fake websites, and counterfeit products. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and only shop on reputable websites. Protect your personal and financial information by using strong passwords and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks.

Here are some precautions to take against scams:

Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails offering deals or promotions, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Fake Websites: Only shop on reputable websites with secure connections (look for “https” in the URL).
Counterfeit Products: Be wary of deals on products that seem too good to be true, as they may be counterfeit.
Public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when shopping online, as they may not be secure.
Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts to protect your personal and financial information.

26. Can I Return Items I Buy on Black Friday?

Whether you can return items you buy on Black Friday depends on the retailer’s return policy. Most retailers offer returns or exchanges within a certain timeframe, but some may have special restrictions for Black Friday purchases. Check the return policy before making a purchase.

Key points to consider regarding returns:

Retailer’s Return Policy: Check the retailer’s return policy before making a purchase.
Return Timeframe: Be aware of the timeframe within which you can return or exchange items.
Special Restrictions: Some retailers may have special restrictions for Black Friday purchases, such as final sale items.
Receipt Required: Keep your receipt as proof of purchase for returns or exchanges.
Online Returns: If you purchased items online, check the retailer’s online return process and shipping policies.

27. How Can I Maximize My Black Friday Savings?

To maximize your Black Friday savings, start by creating a shopping list and setting a budget. Research prices ahead of time and compare deals across different retailers. Use coupons, promo codes, and cashback offers to further reduce your costs.

Here’s a summary of strategies to maximize savings:

Create a Shopping List: Make a list of the items you want to buy to stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend and stick to your budget.
Research Prices: Track prices of desired items to identify genuine discounts during Black Friday.
Compare Deals: Compare prices across different retailers to find the best possible deals.
Use Coupons and Promo Codes: Look for coupons and promo codes to further reduce your costs.

28. What are Some Alternative Shopping Days to Black Friday?

Alternative shopping days to Black Friday include Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday, and Giving Tuesday. Cyber Monday focuses on online deals, Small Business Saturday supports local businesses, and Giving Tuesday encourages charitable giving.

Here’s a summary of alternative shopping days:

Cyber Monday: This shopping day focuses on online deals and takes place the Monday after Thanksgiving.
Small Business Saturday: This shopping day encourages consumers to support local and small businesses and takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Giving Tuesday: This day encourages charitable giving and takes place the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.
Green Monday: Green Monday is the second Monday of December. It is considered one of the biggest online shopping days of the year
Free Shipping Day: Free Shipping Day is a one-day event held annually in mid-December where participating retailers offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve.

29. What are Some Unique Black Friday Traditions Around the World?

Black Friday traditions vary around the world. In some countries, Black Friday is a relatively new phenomenon, while in others, it has been embraced as a major shopping event. Some countries have their own unique twists on Black Friday, such as Midnight Madness sales or special promotions for local products.

Here’s a glimpse of Black Friday traditions around the world:

United States: The US is the birthplace of Black Friday, and it remains a major shopping event with long lines and crowded stores.
Canada: Canada has embraced Black Friday, with retailers offering similar deals and promotions as in the US.
United Kingdom: Black Friday has gained popularity in the UK in recent years, with retailers offering discounts both online and in stores.
Mexico: Mexico has adopted Black Friday, known as “El Buen Fin,” with retailers offering discounts and promotions for several days.
Other Countries: Many other countries around the world have adopted Black Friday, with retailers adapting the tradition to suit local customs and preferences.

30. What are Some Expert Predictions for Black Friday 2024?

Expert predictions for Black Friday 2024 suggest a continued focus on online shopping, with retailers offering more deals and promotions through their websites and apps. Mobile shopping is expected to grow, with consumers using smartphones and tablets to browse and purchase items. Supply chain issues and inventory shortages may impact the availability of some products.

Key predictions for Black Friday 2024:

Continued Focus on Online Shopping: Retailers are expected to continue emphasizing online sales, with more deals and promotions offered through their websites and apps.
Growth of Mobile Shopping: Consumers are expected to increasingly use smartphones and tablets to browse and purchase items.
Supply Chain Issues: Supply chain issues and inventory shortages may impact the availability of some products.
Personalized Deals: Retailers are expected to use data and analytics to offer personalized deals and recommendations to shoppers.
Extended Sales Period: Some retailers may extend their Black Friday sales period, offering deals for several days or even weeks before and after the traditional Black Friday event.

Navigating Black Friday can be overwhelming, but with these tips and insights, you’ll be well-prepared to snag the best deals. Remember to plan ahead, set a budget, and stay safe while shopping, whether online or in-store.

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