The annual frenzy of holiday shopping, marked by Black Friday and Cyber Monday, has become a cultural phenomenon. These days, it’s hard to imagine a world without the chaotic scenes of bargain hunters storming stores at dawn or the midnight online shopping sprees. But where did these shopping extravaganzas originate, and why do they hold such a powerful grip on consumers?
When is Black Friday 2025?
Always the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday 2025 falls on Friday, November 28. While it’s not an official holiday, many people have the day off—except for those who work in retail!
The Dark Origins of Black Friday
The term “Black Friday” is often traced back to the 1960s, when Philadelphia police officers used it to describe the chaotic traffic conditions on the day after Thanksgiving. As shoppers flooded the city streets, traffic jams and accidents became commonplace. However, the term’s meaning evolved over the decades.
By the 1980s, “Black Friday” took on a more positive connotation for retailers. In the accounting world, businesses traditionally used red ink to denote losses and black ink to signify profits. Thus, the day after Thanksgiving, when retailers hoped to turn a profit, became known as “Black Friday.”
The Rise of Cyber Monday
As e-commerce grew in popularity, online retailers sought to capitalize on the holiday shopping season. In 2005, the term “Cyber Monday” was coined by Ellen Davis to describe the Monday after Thanksgiving, when online shoppers could take advantage of special deals and promotions.
The strategy was simple: many people had access to high-speed internet connections at work but slower speeds at home. By encouraging online shopping on a Monday, retailers could tap into a larger pool of potential customers.
The Modern-Day Shopping Frenzy
Today, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have morphed into a week-long shopping event known as Cyber Week. Retailers pull out all the stops, offering deep discounts, limited-time deals, and exclusive promotions. The goal is to entice consumers to spend their hard-earned money on everything from electronics to clothing to home goods.
The psychological tactics employed by retailers are numerous. Creating a sense of urgency, such as limited-time offers or low stock levels, can drive impulsive purchases. Additionally, retailers often use social proof, such as customer reviews and testimonials, to persuade consumers to make a purchase.
While these shopping events can be a boon for retailers, they also have a downside. The intense competition can lead to aggressive behavior among shoppers, with reports of fights and injuries becoming increasingly common. Moreover, the pressure to find the best deals can be stressful and overwhelming.
A Final Thought
As consumers, it’s important to approach Black Friday and Cyber Monday with a clear head and a budget. Avoid impulse purchases and focus on buying items you truly need.
Remember, the best deals are often found throughout the year, not just on these specific shopping days.
By understanding the origins and motivations behind these shopping events, we can make informed decisions about how to participate—or opt out—of the annual frenzy.
Join The Discussion!
What are your thoughts about Black Friday 2025 and Cyber Monday?
Let us know in the comments below!
Why can’t the name be changed to “Hot Deals” Friday. Black Friday can have a racial overtone.
Oh good grief!
This is also a huge bonanza for state governments, which didn’t used to charge a sales tax for out-of-state purchases on line.