While Black Friday may still be a few weeks away, the holiday shopping season has already kicked off early, with major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon offering deals well before the big day. What was once a one-day event has evolved into “Black November,” with sales starting earlier and lasting longer than ever before. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of Black Friday 2024.
With shifting consumer habits, Black Friday now spans days, even weeks, of deals. This gives shoppers more chances to snag the best prices before and after Thanksgiving. Whether you’re after the latest tech, hot toys for the kids, or fashion and beauty products, Black Friday and the lead-up to it are great times to score big savings.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating Black Friday 2024, from when deals begin to where to find the best offers.
When is Black Friday 2024?
This year, Black Friday will be on Friday, November 29, the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on Thursday, November 28.
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is widely considered one of the largest shopping events of the year. The term “Black Friday” dates back to the 1950s in Philadelphia, where police officers used it to describe the chaos caused by hordes of suburban shoppers flooding the city. By the early 1960s, the term was adopted locally, and by the late 1980s, retailers embraced it nationwide, marketing it as a way for stores to go from being “in the red” (losing money) to “in the black” (profitable) thanks to the sales boom.
When Do Black Friday 2024 Sales Begin?
With the rise of online shopping, many retailers have started offering Black Friday deals well before the actual day. Sales have stretched into “Black November,” giving shoppers more time to find the best discounts. Already, major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy have started offering discounts. However, the biggest deals are usually reserved for Black Friday itself.
When Does Black Friday Start on Amazon?
Amazon’s Black Friday Week kicks off on Thursday, November 21, and runs through Friday, November 29. The sale includes up to 55% off select Amazon devices like Fire Smart TVs, Kindles, Ring doorbells, and Beats headphones. You’ll also find discounts of up to 50% off Levi’s denim and OROLAY apparel.
When Does Black Friday Start at Walmart?
Walmart launched its early Black Friday deals on November 11, with discounts of up to 70% on everything from cookware to beauty products to toys and clothing. In-store sales will run from Friday, November 15 through Sunday, November 17.
A second round of Black Friday sales will begin online on Monday, November 25, and in stores on Friday, November 29, starting at 6 a.m. local time.
Additionally, Walmart is offering 50% off its Walmart+ membership, which gives shoppers early access to deals, free shipping, and other perks.
Walmart will be closed on Thanksgiving, but stores will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday.
When Does Black Friday Start at Target?
Target’s Black Friday promotions began Sunday, November 3, with weekly deals running through the holiday season. The first week featured up to 50% off floor care items and headphones, 30% off baby gear and home decor, and buy one, get one 50% off toys like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
New weekly deals include 25% off Disney items (clothes, toys, bedding), discounts on Apple products like AirPods, iPads, and Apple Watches, and 20% off Lego sets.
Target will be closed on Thanksgiving, but stores will open at 6 a.m. on Friday, November 29. From November 30 to December 23, Target will extend its hours to 7 a.m. to midnight.
Tips to Maximize Your Savings This Black Friday
- Start Early: Many retailers have already launched early deals, so don’t wait until the last minute. Check your favorite stores regularly to catch deals before they sell out.
- Shop Online: Online sales have become a huge part of Black Friday, and many retailers offer exclusive online discounts, so be sure to shop from the comfort of your home.
- Know the Timing: Pay attention to when deals are scheduled to go live, especially for high-demand items. Some retailers release major discounts at specific times, so set reminders.
- Be Ready for Flash Sales: Flash sales are common on Black Friday and typically feature limited-time discounts on hot products. Be prepared to act fast to grab these deals before they’re gone.
- Check Price Matching: Some retailers offer price matching or guarantee lower prices during Black Friday. If you find a deal at one store, check if you can get the same price at other stores to maximize savings.
Final Thoughts: Get Ready for Big Savings
Black Friday 2024 is shaping up to be the biggest shopping event of the year. With discounts stretching across the month of November and incredible sales on tech, toys, fashion, and more, it’s the perfect time to knock out your holiday shopping list.
By planning ahead, watching for early deals, and staying on top of daily flash sales, you can score the best discounts. Don’t forget to check your favorite retailers’ Black Friday schedules and be ready to shop early.
Black Friday 2024 is almost here—get ready to shop smart and save big!
