The Friday after Thanksgiving: it’s the ultimate kickoff to the holiday season. After turkey and pie, it’s time to get serious about shopping. Black Friday has become a wild ride of doorbuster deals and bargain-hunting mayhem—but how did it go from leftovers to retail frenzy? Let’s dive into the quirky history of Black Friday and why it’s so important for businesses.
Black Friday’s origins go way back, but not the way you think
Believe it or not, Black Friday didn’t start with massive sales. The tradition of post-Thanksgiving shopping actually began in the 1800s when stores kicked off the holiday season with parades. By the early 20th century, retailers were already starting holiday sales after Thanksgiving.
The 1940s: When Black Friday started to get its groove
Here’s a fun tidbit: Black Friday didn’t become official until the 1940s. Thanksgiving used to fall on the last Thursday of November, but in 1939, an extra Thursday led retailers to ask President Roosevelt to shift Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday. By the 1940s, Black Friday was born.
How Philly turned chaos into a shopping holiday
The “Black Friday” name actually comes from Philadelphia in the 1950s, when the Army-Navy football game brought huge crowds into town. The police called it “Black Friday” because of the chaos, and retailers jumped on board, turning the term into a symbol of big sales.
Why Black Friday is a gold mine for retailers
Today, Black Friday is huge for retailers, bringing in billions and making up 20% of annual sales. Whether online or in-store, people are ready to grab deals, making it the Super Bowl of shopping.
Black Friday shopping hacks you need to know
Want to be a Black Friday pro? Here are some tips:
1. Get a head start – Many retailers release deals early.
2. Set a budget – Stick to your plan to avoid impulse buys.
3. Compare prices – Not all deals are as great as they seem.
4. Avoid the crowds – Shop online if you’re not into chaos.
Next time you grab that $200 blender for $50, you can tell your friends the fun history of Black Friday. It’s not just about the sales—it’s about the story!
Happy shopping!
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