Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events in the United States. It takes place every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving. On this day, many shops and online stores offer special discounts on different products. People wait for Black Friday to buy clothes, electronics, home items, gifts and other things at lower prices.

For many families, it is also the start of the holiday shopping season. But Black Friday is not just about discounts. It has an interesting history and has become an important part of American shopping culture.

When Is Black Friday 2026?

Black Friday 2026 will take place on Friday, November 27, 2026. It comes one day after Thanksgiving, which will be celebrated on November 26 this year. You can check the date on the Black Friday 2026 calendar.

Many stores start their sales before the actual date. Some shops offer discounts for an entire week, while online stores may begin their deals even earlier. For example, Amazon's Black Friday guide explains when its shopping event takes place and how customers can find early deals.

What Is Black Friday and Why Is It Celebrated?

Black Friday is a shopping event when retailers offer special deals to attract customers. People visit shopping malls, department stores and websites to find products at reduced prices.

It is not a federal public holiday in the United States, but many people get a day off because it falls after Thanksgiving. This gives families and friends time to shop together.

The main reason behind Black Friday sales is to encourage holiday shopping. Many people use this day to buy Christmas gifts and prepare for the festive season.

Why Is It Called Black Friday?

There are different stories behind the name Black Friday.

One popular explanation connects the name with business accounts. In accounting, red ink was often used to show losses, while black ink showed profits. According to this story, stores started making more money during the holiday shopping season and moved from red to black.

However, this is not the original historical reason behind the name. According to HISTORY's explanation of Black Friday's origins, police officers in Philadelphia used the term during the 1950s to describe heavy traffic and crowded streets after Thanksgiving.

The crowds included shoppers and visitors arriving in the city before the annual Army-Navy football game. Over time, retailers gave the name a more positive connection with shopping deals and big sales.

History of Black Friday

Black Friday became popular in the United States during the second half of the 20th century. After Thanksgiving, people started visiting stores to shop for Christmas and other holiday celebrations.

Retailers noticed that this period brought a large number of customers. They began offering special discounts to attract even more shoppers.

By the 1980s, the term had become closely connected with the idea of retailers moving from losses to profits during the holiday shopping season. As shopping habits changed, Black Friday also moved online. Today, people can find deals on websites and shopping apps without visiting a physical store.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics also explains how online shopping has changed the Black Friday shopping period over the years.

How Do Americans Celebrate Black Friday?

People celebrate Black Friday in different ways. Some enjoy visiting shopping malls with family and friends, while others prefer shopping from home.

Here are some common activities:

  • Visiting shopping malls: Many people visit stores early to find popular products before they sell out.
  • Online shopping: Customers compare prices and order products through websites and apps.
  • Buying Christmas gifts: Many shoppers use this day to purchase gifts for family and friends.
  • Looking for electronics: Smartphones, laptops, televisions and other electronic items are popular during sales.
  • Shopping with family: Some people make shopping plans with their loved ones and spend the day together.

What Products Are Popular During Black Friday?

Black Friday sales cover many product categories. Some of the most popular items include smartphones, laptops, televisions, clothes, shoes, kitchen appliances, beauty products and toys.

Many stores also offer discounts on home furniture, fitness products and travel accessories. The deals can be different from one retailer to another, so shoppers often compare prices before making a purchase.

The National Retail Federation's holiday shopping survey shares information about shopping plans, discounts and spending habits during the holiday season.

Black Friday and Its Importance

Black Friday is important for both customers and businesses. Customers get a chance to purchase products at lower prices, while retailers get more visitors and sales during the holiday season.

It also gives people an early chance to complete their Christmas shopping. Many shoppers plan their purchases in advance so they can manage their holiday expenses.

Today, Black Friday is not limited to physical stores. Online shopping has made it easier for people to take part in the event from different locations. However, shoppers should compare prices, check seller details and read return policies before placing an order. The Federal Trade Commission's online shopping guide offers useful advice on safe shopping and comparing deals.

Conclusion

Black Friday has grown from a busy shopping day into one of the biggest retail events of the year. It brings special offers, holiday shopping and new opportunities for both customers and businesses.

In 2026, Black Friday will take place on November 27. Whether people visit shopping malls or shop online, the day gives them a chance to prepare for the holiday season and look for products at better prices.