Black Friday and Cyber Monday, once separate shopping events, have now blended into an extended shopping extravaganza. Retailers offer early deals, spanning both in-store and online sales, blurring the lines between the two days. But which day truly delivers the best bargains?
The Shopping Phenomenon in Numbers
The ultimate shopping weekend is approaching, and it’s bigger than ever. According to a National Retail Federation survey, 183.4 million people plan to shop between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday in 2024. This marks an increase from 182 million in 2023.
Black Friday continues to dominate, with 131.7 million people (72%) planning to shop on that day. Meanwhile, 39% of respondents, or 72.3 million people, expect to shop on Cyber Monday. For many, the primary motivator is the irresistible deals, as cited by 57% of participants. Another 28% shop to honor the holiday tradition.
With millions flocking to stores and online platforms, the debate persists: Is one day better for deals, or are both equally rewarding? Let’s dive into what sets Black Friday and Cyber Monday apart.
What Is Black Friday?
Black Friday 2024 falls on Friday, Nov. 29, the day after Thanksgiving. The term originated in the 1950s when Philadelphia police described the chaos caused by post-Thanksgiving shopping crowds. By the 1980s, retailers rebranded the term to signify profits moving “into the black.”
Today, Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season, with discounts both in stores and online. Retailers often release deals weeks in advance, giving shoppers a head start. However, many save their most significant discounts for the official day.
Noteworthy Black Friday deals in 2024 include up to 55% off Amazon devices like Fire TVs, Kindles, and Ring doorbells. Walmart offers up to 70% off items ranging from cookware to clothing, making it a shopping haven for bargain hunters.
What Is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday 2024 takes place on Dec. 2, the Monday following Thanksgiving. This online-focused event began in 2005, when the National Retail Federation noticed increased online shopping after Thanksgiving. People, using faster office internet, began tackling their holiday shopping on Monday.
Like Black Friday, Cyber Monday has grown into a multi-day event. Retailers now offer deals throughout “Cyber Week.” Amazon, for instance, starts its Cyber Monday event on Nov. 29 and runs it through Dec. 2. Discounts include 50% off JBL headphones, 40% off Bissell vacuums, and 20% off Stanley drinkware.
Target also joins in with deals starting on Sunday, Dec. 1, extending through Cyber Monday. Highlights include Apple AirPods Pro for $189.99 and the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for $24.99.
Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: Which Is Better?
Traditionally, Black Friday focused on in-store flash sales, while Cyber Monday catered to online shoppers. However, as online shopping gained popularity, the distinction has blurred. Retailers now offer overlapping deals, with events spanning several days.
For instance, Amazon’s Black Friday Week transitions seamlessly into Cyber Monday, creating a continuous shopping spree. Some deals carry over, while others are reserved for one specific day.
To get the best deals, shoppers should check dates for their desired items. Black Friday may still offer better in-store deals, but Cyber Monday often features competitive discounts on tech and electronics.
Early Deals and Extended Sales
Retailers like Walmart, Amazon, Target, and Best Buy have embraced the trend of starting sales early. Amazon’s Black Friday Week began on Nov. 21, offering discounts like 55% off Levi’s denim and 50% off OROLAY apparel.
Similarly, Walmart launched early deals on Nov. 11, with significant discounts across cookware, toys, and beauty products. By extending sales, retailers give shoppers more time to secure the best prices.
Final Thoughts
The extended shopping weekend offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer Black Friday’s in-store excitement or Cyber Monday’s tech-heavy deals, planning is key. Monitor sale dates and compare discounts to maximize savings. Both days now provide a vast array of deals, ensuring you’ll find great bargains regardless of when you shop.