Black Friday Frenzy: Shoppers gear up for holiday bargains

The arrival of Black Friday signals the traditional start of the holiday shopping season, but in the digital age, the day has evolved into a broader sales extravaganza. Retailers have already inundated customers with early deals, transforming what was once a one-day affair into a weeks-long shopping frenzy.

Despite the early promotions, experts suggest that the best deals are still likely to appear during the highly anticipated four-day period from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, referred to in the retail world as BFCM. Big-ticket items, seasonal products, and the latest trends are expected to headline the discounts.

Shopping Tips for Black Friday

Consumer advocates caution that savvy shopping requires more than jumping at flashy discounts. They advise comparing prices, checking price histories, and carefully reviewing product descriptions to ensure that deals truly deliver value.

For many, the allure of Black Friday lies beyond the bargains. The festive atmosphere, holiday music, and excitement of in-person shopping continue to draw crowds to malls and local shopping centers. Retailers are upping the ante by offering exclusive in-store promotions to entice foot traffic.

Store Hours for Black Friday 2024

For those planning to hit the stores, here’s a quick rundown of major retailers’ Black Friday hours:

• Best Buy: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Home Depot: Opens at 6 a.m.; closing times vary.
• JCPenney: Opens at 5 a.m.
• Kohl’s: Opens at 5 a.m.
• Lowe’s: Opens at 6 a.m.
• Macy’s: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.; hours vary by location.
• Sam’s Club: Regular store hours.
• Sephora: Hours vary; some stores open early or stay open late.
• Target: Opens at 6 a.m.
• Walmart: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

As shoppers gear up for Black Friday, retailers aim to make the season’s kick-off unforgettable with exciting offers and festive experiences, both in-store and online. Whether you’re hunting for the latest gadgets or simply soaking in the holiday cheer, the BFCM period promises to deliver.