Black Friday and Shopping Days After Thanksgiving

Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It traditionally marks the start of the Christmas shopping season and is the busiest shopping day of the year in the United States.

Some stores open as early as midnight or even late on Thanksgiving Day. Shoppers should check the store opening times. Many people stand in line until stores open to grab sale items.

The Name "Black Friday"

The day after Thanksgiving is the day retailers cut prices and offer bargains. That way, they can make more profits and get back into the "black" before the end of the year. That's why the day is known as "Black Friday."

Thanksgiving ushers in a time of gratitude, family gatherings, and reflection. Yet almost as soon as the last slice of pumpkin pie is enjoyed, some people traditionally head out to the shopping malls.

Black Friday has evolved into a week-long celebration of deals. In 2025, it officially falls on Friday, November 28, but the spirit of savings stretches far beyond that single day.

Post-Thanksgiving Shopping Days

Black Friday, November 28, 2025: The traditional kickoff focuses on in‑store and now online deals. This day is no longer just about televisions and toys. It is now known for discounts on electronics, fashion, and increasingly travel packages. It has become a gateway to experiences, including discounted flights, hotel stays, and cruises.

Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025: This is the day to step away from big‑box stores and support local entrepreneurs. From neighborhood bookstores to artisan craft shops, Small Business Saturday reminds us that every purchase can strengthen the community. Choosing to shop small is a way to bless the people who pour their creativity and livelihood into their work.

Cyber Monday, December 1, 2025: If Black Friday is the grand kickoff, Cyber Monday is its digital counterpart. It was created in 2005 to encourage online shopping. Cyber Monday now rivals Black Friday in scale. Retailers roll out exclusive online‑only deals, often extending discounts on electronics, gadgets, and subscription services. For travelers, Cyber Monday is a chance to snag package deals, discounted hotel stays, and even cruise bookings—all from the comfort of home.

Travel Tuesday, December 2, 2025: This is the “hidden gem” for travelers. Airlines, hotels, and cruise lines offer some of their deepest discounts of the year. Airlines, hotels, and booking platforms unveil some of their deepest discounts of the year. Deals include reduced airfare and boutique hotel stays across the U.S. Travel Tuesday reflects a cultural shift: experiences are becoming the new luxury. Instead of filling carts with gadgets, many consumers are filling calendars with adventures.

Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025: Also on this date is a global day of charitable giving. Charities, nonprofits, and community organizations invite us to channel our gratitude into action. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply acts of kindness, Giving Tuesday balances the season of spending with the spirit of giving. This is a day of gratitude in action.

Other Related Shopping Days

Green Monday, December 8, 2025: Another online shopping day, typically the second Monday in December, focused on last‑minute holiday deals.

Super Saturday, December 20, 2025: The final big push before Christmas, often with extended store hours and clearance sales.

Questions

• Do you shop on any of the above days?
• If so, which ones?