Black Friday’s an important shopping day so long as you’ve got your gift ideas already in mind and can pounce on the deals—or maybe browsing the deals will spur the concept for the perfect gift. In the past, Americans have gotten so worked up over reduced prices for items that had limited availability that there was violence among otherwise-mild-mannered people. Hopefully, we’re wiser now… but the fact remains that many people are setting alarm clocks to rise early with their guts full of turkey, stuffing, and potatoes to hit their favorite store just as the doors open (or, in some cases, to join the line before they open). Deals can range from knocking a hundred dollars off that much-wanted airfare to getting a cut off department store apparel or jewelry. Whatever your speed, here are a few things to know.
How long does Black Friday last in the U.S.?
In many cases, it’s not just a one-day observance. Although Black Friday kicks off the deal season, often the discounts linger through the weekend, and then you can bounce right into Cyber Monday deals. Sometimes Black Friday starts before Thanksgiving (we saw Macy’s having an advance observance earlier this week), and often, it runs through the entire month; some folks refer to the event as Black November to encapsulate its growing reach.
When did Black Friday start?
Although it may seem a relatively new phenomenon, it dates back to the 1950s, according to USA Today. Philadelphia police used the term to describe the traffic, accidents and shoplifting chaos the day after Thanksgiving, when people came into the city both to do their shopping and to attend the Army-Navy football game.
What are Black Friday opening times for major apparel chains?
Gap: varying times depending on store location
Old Navy: varying times depending on store location
H&M: varying times depending on store location
TJ Maxx: opens at 7am
Marshall’s: opens at 7am
JCPenney: opens at 5am
Nordstrom: opens at 10am
Burlington: opens at 7am
Belk: opens at 7am
Victoria’s Secret: opens at 6am
What time do home goods/improvement stores open?
Walmart: opens at 6am
Target: opens at 6am
Kohl’s: opens at 5am
HomeGoods: opens at 7am
Home Depot: opens at 6am
Lowe’s: opens at 6am
Ace Hardware: varying times depending on store location
Big Lots: opens at 7am
Ikea: opens at 10am
Tractor Supply Company: opens at 6am
What time do sporting goods stores open?
REI: closed on Black Friday
Cabela’s: opens at 5am
Bass Pro Shop: opens at 5am