Every year around late November, you start hearing the buzz about Black Friday. News anchors talk about it, inboxes fill up with “doorbuster” deals, and some people even line up outside stores hours before opening. But what exactly is Black Friday, why is it such a big deal, and what should we expect this year? Let’s break it down.

What’s Black Friday?

Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States. Since Thanksgiving always falls on the fourth Thursday of November, Black Friday shifts dates from year to year but always lands the next day. Many people see it as the official kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

The reason it’s so busy comes down to two things: most people have the day off, and retailers push out some of their biggest discounts of the year. For decades, it’s been a day when stores open early and shoppers hunt for bargains, sometimes even before sunrise. Over time, it has expanded beyond a single day. Now, many stores start their Black Friday sales days or even weeks before Thanksgiving, and the discounts often run through the weekend into Cyber Monday.

A Quick History of Black Friday

The term “Black Friday” dates back to the 1960s in Philadelphia. At that time, police officers used it to describe the heavy traffic and crowded sidewalks the day after Thanksgiving as shoppers and tourists flooded the city ahead of the Army–Navy football game. The name stuck and spread nationwide.

Later, retailers gave it a more positive spin. Many businesses claimed the day marked the point when stores finally moved “into the black,” meaning they started turning a profit for the year. Whether you look at it as a traffic headache or the unofficial start of holiday shopping, it has grown into a cultural event that now reaches well beyond the United States.

Do I Still Have to Wait in Line?

Not really. Years ago, if you wanted the best deal, you had to physically go to the store, wait in long lines, and rush to grab one of the limited items in stock. That led to the iconic images of packed malls and people camping outside stores.

Today, things have changed. Most retailers post the same deals online that you’ll find in stores, often with free shipping or the option to pick up your order in person. Because of that, standing in line overnight isn’t as necessary as it once was. Online shopping has made Black Friday more accessible, and deals often stretch through the weekend instead of ending after one day.

Are the Deals Worth It?

That depends on what you’re buying. Black Friday is known for steep discounts on big-ticket items like TVs, laptops, home appliances, and electronics. These categories usually see their lowest prices of the year. On the other hand, items like clothing, shoes, or toys might only be a little cheaper than usual. So, while there are great deals to be had, it helps to do some research ahead of time so you know whether you’re really saving.

Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday

Black Friday has traditionally been the in-store shopping event, while Cyber Monday was created as the online alternative. But the lines between the two have blurred. Many of the same deals you see on Friday carry into Monday, especially from online retailers. If you prefer shopping from home, Cyber Monday often matches Black Friday discounts, so you’re not missing out much by skipping the crowds.

Is It a Holiday?

Black Friday is not an official holiday in the United States or anywhere else, but it feels like one. Many businesses stay closed the day after Thanksgiving, giving people a four-day weekend. And while the U.S. is where it started, Black Friday sales are now common in countries like Canada, the UK, Germany, and Australia.

Shopping Tips for 2025

If you’re planning to shop this year, a little preparation can help. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Start early: Many deals go live days before Thanksgiving, and some of the best items sell out quickly.

• Compare prices: Just because it’s labeled a Black Friday deal doesn’t always mean it’s the lowest price. Use price tracking tools or check multiple retailers before buying.

• Watch out for fake deals: Some products are marked down from inflated “original” prices. Focus on items you already planned to buy instead of impulse purchases.

• Check return policies: Stores may have stricter holiday return rules. It’s worth double-checking before you commit.

• Look for bundles: Electronics and gaming deals often include extra accessories or services, which can save more in the long run.

• Plan for Cyber Monday: If you’re more comfortable shopping online, you may find the same or better deals without leaving home.

When Is Black Friday in 2025?

This year, Black Friday will fall on November 28, 2025. The date always changes slightly because it’s tied to Thanksgiving. In 2025, that means shoppers will be hitting stores and websites one day earlier than they did in 2024.