Black Friday has become a major event for shoppers in the United States and around the globe. In 2024, this highly anticipated shopping day falls on Friday, November 29, right after Thanksgiving. For many, it marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, providing a golden opportunity to snag unbeatable deals. This year, the anticipation is higher than ever as retailers have started rolling out their promotions weeks in advance. Top deals are expected in categories like technology, fashion, home goods, and toys.
Store Opening Times: Major retailers are gearing up for the event with early openings. Costco will welcome shoppers at 9:00 a.m., Target opens at 7:00 a.m., and Walmart kicks off at 6:00 a.m. Other stores such as Home Depot, Lowe's, and T.J. Maxx will also open their doors early to accommodate eager customers. Black Friday is eagerly awaited by consumers, as the discounts are often substantial. Whether you're planning your holiday shopping or simply looking to take advantage of great deals, this guide will help you navigate Black Friday and Cyber Monday smartly.
Cyber Monday and Cyber Week
Cyber Monday, focusing on online shopping, is set for Monday, December 2, 2024. Originally a digital-only sale, many of the discounts now overlap with Black Friday, extending the savings over several days both in stores and online. Cyber Week, which spans from Black Friday through the end of Cyber Monday, has gained traction. In 2024, Cyber Week runs from November 29 to December 2, though some retailers may stretch their deals, especially in tech, fashion, and home essentials. Walmart has announced several rounds of early sales:
- Event 1: Begins online on November 11 for Walmart+ members and November 15 in stores.
- Event 2: Starts November 25 online for members, and November 29 in stores.
- Cyber Monday: Begins December 1 for Walmart+ members and December 2 for the general public.
Additionally, Walmart will offer discounts on Walmart+ subscriptions during Cyber Week. Knowing when, where, and how to shop is crucial for maximizing your purchases.
Strategies to Make the Most of Black Friday
- Create a wish list: Determine the items you truly want or need to avoid impulsive buys and stay focused on your priorities.
- Research prices ahead of time: Some discounts can be misleading. Knowing the current prices of the products you’re interested in will help you identify genuine bargains.
- Compare prices across stores: Check prices at various retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, Amazon, and Target. This will help you find the best deal or take advantage of perks like free shipping.
- Set a budget: The temptation to overspend is high, so it’s important to set a spending limit.
- Utilize membership benefits: Retailers like Walmart and Best Buy offer early access to discounts through loyalty programs.
- Review return policies: If you're uncertain about a purchase, check the return policies. Many retailers extend these policies during the holiday season.