Top 10 things Americans do on Black Friday 2024
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| the Friday after Thanksgiving, when shops reduce the price of goods in order to attract customers who want to start their Christmas shopping: The store was full of Black Friday shoppers chasing deals. |
Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving—is a full-contact sport in America. It’s not just about shopping; it’s a cultural event, a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes, a test of patience. Whether you're a seasoned Black Friday pro or someone who just wants to watch the madness from the sidelines, this day has something for everyone.
Read More: Black Friday 2024: Top 5 Reasons Why Americans Can't Stop Shopping
1. Wake Up at an Absurd Hour
Black Friday starts early. Like, before-the-sun-rises early. People set alarms for 3 AM—or don’t sleep at all—just to line up at stores before they open. For some, it’s an adventure; for others, it’s a regrettable decision. Coffee? Essential. Pajamas? Often the outfit of choice.
Why it’s hilarious: Who needs a cozy bed when you can freeze in a parking lot for discounted blenders?
2. Camp Out in Front of Stores
Speaking of parking lots, camping is a Black Friday tradition for the bold. Hardcore shoppers pitch tents, bring snacks, and form mini communities while waiting for the doors to open. It's like Coachella, but instead of headliners, the main act is a 60% off TV.
Pro tip: Always bring a chair. No one wants to sit on concrete for six hours.
3. Battle for Parking Spaces
Finding parking at a mall on Black Friday is like hunting for treasure. Drivers will circle endlessly, stalk people leaving stores, and occasionally engage in a standoff for a prime spot.
Why it’s relatable: Everyone has that one friend who says, “We’ll just park farther away and walk,” but on Black Friday, even they will fight for the front row.
4. Form Human Shields for Doorbuster Deals
When stores open their doors, it’s game time. Shoppers make a mad dash for doorbuster deals—those heavily discounted items available in limited quantities. Some even form human shields to protect their cart full of treasures from being poached.
Why it’s chaotic: You came for the $10 air fryer, but you might leave with a bruised ego (and possibly a sprained ankle).
5. Buy Things They Don’t Need
Let’s face it: Black Friday makes us all irrational. Who really needs a snow cone machine or a neck massager shaped like a unicorn? Yet, there they are in your cart, because the price was “too good to pass up.”
Moral of the story: If you’re questioning it in the store, you’ll definitely question it at home.
6. Snack While They Shop
Shopping on Black Friday is a marathon, not a sprint. That’s why many Americans bring snacks or hit up the food court for sustenance. A pretzel in one hand and a shopping bag in the other? Multitasking at its finest.
Fun fact: Calories consumed on Black Friday don’t count—they’re fuel for survival.
7. Argue Over the Last Item
Nothing bonds strangers like arguing over the last discounted Instant Pot. The stakes are high, and so are the emotions. Some people negotiate; others resort to rock-paper-scissors.
Why it’s entertaining: Watching adults argue over a $20 waffle maker is the ultimate spectator sport.
8. Shop Online in Pajamas
Not everyone braves the stores. Many Americans have transitioned to online shopping, enjoying Black Friday from the comfort of their couch. Armed with coffee and Wi-Fi, they click their way through deals without fighting crowds.
Why it’s brilliant: No lines, no drama—just you and your credit card having a peaceful morning.
9. Return Half of Their Purchases Later
Impulse buys happen. By the following week, reality sets in, and those “must-have” items get returned. That air fryer? It was never going to fit on your counter.
Why it’s predictable: Black Friday is about the thrill of the chase, not the practicality of the prize.
10. Celebrate Their Savings Like Champions
Once the dust settles, Americans love bragging about their Black Friday hauls. Friends and family hear stories like, “This coat was $300, but I got it for $50!” Even if they didn’t save much, they’ll make it sound like they conquered Mount Everest.
Why it’s funny: No one needs to know you spent an hour fighting for $5 socks.
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| Black Friday is well known as the day when retailers slash prices to kick off the holiday shopping season and clear out stock ahead of the new year |
FAQs
Q1: What is Black Friday, and why is it called that?
A: Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and is famous for massive sales. The name originated because it’s the day retailers typically go “into the black,” meaning they make a profit.
Q2: When does Black Friday officially start?
A: Traditionally, it starts at midnight after Thanksgiving, but nowadays, sales begin earlier, sometimes even weeks in advance.
Q3: Is Black Friday shopping dangerous?
A: Not usually, but crowds can get intense. Always stay calm, keep a safe distance, and avoid shoving matches over discounted toasters.
Q4: Are Black Friday deals really worth it?
A: Sometimes! Big-ticket items like electronics often have significant discounts. However, not every deal is as good as it seems.
Q5: What’s the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
A: Black Friday focuses on in-store shopping (though online deals are common), while Cyber Monday is exclusively online.
Q6: Can I get Black Friday deals without leaving home?
A: Absolutely! Most stores offer their Black Friday discounts online, so you can shop in your pajamas.
Q7: What are doorbuster deals?
A: These are deeply discounted items offered in limited quantities, often to attract customers to the store.
Q8: Do small businesses participate in Black Friday?
A: Many do, but small businesses also have Small Business Saturday, which encourages people to shop locally the day after Black Friday.
Q9: What should I avoid on Black Friday?
A: Avoid buying items that aren’t actually discounted or things you don’t need. Also, skip stores that seem too chaotic.
Q10: What’s the best Black Friday survival tip?
A: Plan ahead. Know which stores to visit, make a shopping list, and always bring snacks.
Black Friday is an experience like no other. Whether you’re diving into the chaos or scoring deals online, it’s a day filled with laughter, drama, and plenty of shopping bags. So, grab your wallet (and maybe some armor), and embrace the madness that is Black Friday. Happy shopping!
