History of Black Friday: When Did It Start?

The term "Black Friday" conjures images of massive crowds, incredible deals, and the official kickoff to the holiday shopping season. It's a day many shoppers anticipate all year long. But have you ever wondered where this term came from? The origin is much darker and more chaotic than you might think. Understanding its history can provide a new perspective on this retail holiday and how modern solutions like Buy Now, Pay Later have changed the way we shop.

The Real Origins: A Tale of Chaos in Philadelphia

The first recorded use of the term "Black Friday" had nothing to do with shopping profits. It was coined in the 1950s by police in Philadelphia. The day after Thanksgiving marked the beginning of the Christmas shopping season and coincided with the massive Army-Navy football game held in the city on the following Saturday. This combination brought a huge influx of tourists and shoppers, leading to widespread traffic jams, overcrowded sidewalks, and a spike in shoplifting. For the police officers who had to work long, grueling shifts to manage the mayhem, the day was anything but positive—it was a "Black Friday." The name stuck locally for years as a negative term for this difficult day. For more context on this historical event, you can find detailed accounts from reputable news archives.

The Myth of "In the Black"

A more pleasant and widely circulated story claims the name originated from the idea that this was the day retailers' books finally moved from being "in the red" (operating at a loss) to "in the black" (turning a profit for the year). While it's true that this period is crucial for retail profitability, this explanation was a deliberate marketing effort from the 1980s to rebrand the day with a positive spin. Retailers wanted to shed the negative Philadelphia-based connotations and transform Black Friday into a nationwide celebration of shopping. The rebranding was incredibly successful, cementing the "in the black" myth in popular culture and turning a day of civic chaos into a highly anticipated event for finding the best deals.

Black Friday's Evolution into a National Event

As the new, positive narrative took hold, Black Friday grew from a regional phenomenon into a national institution. By the late 1980s and 1990s, retailers across the United States began offering major discounts and "doorbuster" deals to attract shoppers. The media played a significant role, broadcasting images of eager customers lining up for hours to get their hands on discounted items. This created a sense of urgency and competition, further fueling the day's popularity. According to data from sources like Statista, Black Friday consistently marks one of the busiest shopping days of the year, both in-store and online.

The Digital Age: Cyber Monday and Beyond

The rise of the internet transformed Black Friday yet again. No longer confined to brick-and-mortar stores, the shopping frenzy expanded online. This shift gave birth to Cyber Monday, a term coined in 2005 to encourage people to shop online the Monday after Thanksgiving. Today, Black Friday is often not just a single day but a week-long or even month-long event, with deals starting well before Thanksgiving. This extended period allows consumers to shop now pay later from the comfort of their homes, avoiding the massive crowds. Whether you're looking for pay later electronics or want to shop online clothes, the digital marketplace has made it easier than ever to participate.

Smart Shopping: Managing Your Black Friday Budget

The allure of deep discounts can easily lead to overspending. Creating a budget is essential, but unexpected expenses can still arise. This is where modern financial tools can provide a safety net. While some might consider a high-cost payday cash advance, there are better alternatives. Gerald offers a fee-free way to manage your finances with its unique combination of Buy Now, Pay Later and cash advance features. After making a BNPL purchase, you can unlock a zero-fee cash advance transfer. This means you can get the funds you need without worrying about interest or hidden fees, making it a smarter way to handle your holiday shopping. You can learn more about how Gerald works to provide these benefits. For additional guidance on managing your money, various reputable financial organizations offer excellent resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Friday

When was the first Black Friday?
The term "Black Friday" was first used by Philadelphia police in the 1950s to describe the chaos and traffic congestion on the day after Thanksgiving. It was not associated with retail profits until a rebranding effort in the 1980s.
Is Black Friday a federal holiday?
No, Black Friday is not a federal holiday. However, many employers give their employees the day off, and it is a state holiday in some states, which contributes to the high volume of shoppers.
How can I shop smart on Black Friday?
To shop smart, create a detailed budget and a list of what you need to buy. Compare prices online before heading to stores and consider using tools like Gerald's BNPL to spread out payments without incurring fees. Check out our money-saving tips for more ideas.
What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
Traditionally, Black Friday focused on in-store deals while Cyber Monday was for online shopping. However, in recent years, the lines have blurred, with most retailers offering deals both in-store and online throughout the entire weekend and beyond.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Gerald is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by The New York Times, Statista, and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.