Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States and one of the largest retail events globally. It falls on the Friday after US Thanksgiving — the fourth Thursday of November — and marks the traditional start of the Christmas shopping season. In 2023, US consumers spent $9.8 billion online on Black Friday alone, a figure that has grown almost every year since online shopping became mainstream.
The term 'Black Friday' originated in Philadelphia in the 1960s, where police used it to describe the chaotic foot traffic and congestion that occurred the day after Thanksgiving as shoppers flooded stores. The phrase spread nationally by the 1980s. One popular but disputed folk etymology claims the name refers to retailers moving from 'in the red' (operating at a loss) to 'in the black' (profit) — though historians note the police usage predates this explanation.
Today Black Friday has expanded well beyond the United States. Retailers in the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Brazil and dozens of other countries now run major Black Friday promotions. Deals extend across the entire week, with many retailers launching 'Black Friday Week' campaigns beginning on Monday. Online shopping has shifted consumer behaviour dramatically — while physical store visits peaked around 2012, digital spending on Black Friday has grown by double digits in most years since.
When is Black Friday 2026?
Black Friday 2026 falls on November 27, 2026 — the day after US Thanksgiving.
When is Black Friday 2027?
Black Friday 2027 falls on November 26, 2027.
What time do Black Friday sales start?
Online deals often begin on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday) or even the week before. Physical stores typically open at midnight or 5–6 AM on Friday, though many chains now open at midnight.
What are the best Black Friday deals?
The biggest discounts are typically on TVs and electronics, smartphones, laptops, kitchen appliances, toys and clothing. Deals of 40–70% off are common in these categories.
Is Black Friday better than Cyber Monday?
Black Friday traditionally has the best deals on electronics and physical goods. Cyber Monday focuses on online-only deals, particularly in fashion, software and digital subscriptions. Today many retailers offer the same deals across both days.
Do UK and Australian retailers do Black Friday?
Yes. Black Friday is now a major event in the UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Brazil and many other countries. Most major retailers run deals for the entire Black Friday week.
Should I wait for Black Friday or buy now?
For electronics, Black Friday consistently delivers the lowest prices of the year. However, some products (like newly released items) may not be discounted. Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy tend to offer year-long price-match guarantees you can take advantage of.
What is the Black Friday weekend?
The Black Friday weekend refers to the stretch from Friday to Cyber Monday — often called the 'Cyber Five'. It is the single biggest shopping period of the US retail calendar.
Are Black Friday prices really the lowest?
Generally yes for electronics and appliances — studies show Black Friday prices on TVs and laptops are on average 20–25% lower than at other times of year. Some other product categories see comparable discounts at other sale events.
Is Black Friday a public holiday?
No. Black Friday is not an official US public holiday, though many employers give workers the day off as part of the Thanksgiving long weekend.