What You Didn’t Know About Black Friday: 10 Fun Facts Revealed
Black Friday has grown from a local shopping event into a worldwide retail craze. With this big day just approaching, let’s dive into some interesting Black Friday fun facts. These facts will give you a better look at its history, importance, and unique traditions. Here are 10 fun facts about Black Friday and Cyber Monday that are both fun and informative.
1. The Origin of the Name “Black Friday”
The term “Black Friday” wasn’t always associated with retail sales. It first appeared in Philadelphia in the 1960s, used by local police to describe the chaotic scenes of traffic jams and overcrowded streets after Thanksgiving. While many believe it refers to retailers “going into the black” (becoming profitable), these early Black Friday fun facts prove it was originally about the headaches of crowd control.
2. Black Friday’s Financial Roots
Before it became a shopping event, “Black Friday” was linked to a financial crisis. In 1869, two investors attempted to manipulate the U.S. gold market, which led to a market crash on September 24. This historic use of the term highlights how “Black Friday” initially had nothing to do with shopping.
3. The Truth About Its Popularity
Did you know Black Friday wasn’t officially the busiest shopping day of the year until 2001? For decades, the Saturday before Christmas held that title. Today, however, sales data and Black Friday facts confirm it as one of the biggest shopping days globally.
4. Black Friday Goes Global
Although it started in the United States, Black Friday is now a global retail event. Countries like Canada, Mexico, and the UK have adopted the day with their own twists. For example, in Mexico, it’s called El Buen Fin. These fun facts about Black Friday demonstrate how American traditions have influenced shopping worldwide.
5. Online Shopping Dominates
In recent years, online shopping during Black Friday has outpaced in-store purchases. With deals just a click away, many consumers prefer browsing from the comfort of their homes. This digital shift shows how Black Friday fun facts now include a stronger emphasis on technology.
6. The Birth of Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday was introduced in 2005 to encourage online shopping after Thanksgiving weekend. Retailers quickly realized they could extend the Black Friday buzz by offering additional deals online. This blend of 10 fun facts about Black Friday and Cyber Monday proves how these two shopping events now complement each other.
7. Pajamas Are Surprisingly Popular
While electronics and toys are often seen as Black Friday’s top sellers, pajamas surprisingly rank among the most purchased items. Millions of cozy sleepwear sets are sold every year during Black Friday, proving that comfort is king during the holidays.
8. Shopping Risks and Safety
Black Friday isn’t all fun and games. Since 2006, there have been reports of injuries and even fatalities due to stampedes and altercations. More people have been harmed during Black Friday shopping than in shark attacks. These sobering Black Friday trivia remind us why retailers now prioritize safety measures.
9. Retailers’ Big Revenue Day
For retailers, Black Friday is more than just a shopping frenzy; it’s a crucial revenue driver. Many businesses prepare months in advance to ensure they can meet the high demand. These Black Friday facts highlight how much planning goes into making this day successful for stores.
10. Alcohol-Fueled Shopping Sprees
A surprising fact: Around 12% of shoppers admit to buying things under the influence of alcohol on Black Friday. This trend has led to a rise in unexpected purchases and some humorous stories of morning-after regrets.
More Fun Black Friday Trivias
- Online shopping has officially surpassed in-store purchases during Black Friday, with many shoppers choosing the ease and convenience of buying from their devices.
- Cyber Monday began in 2005 to promote online shopping after Black Friday, and it has since become one of the biggest online shopping days of the year.
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined bring in billions of dollars in sales every year, making this period a critical time for businesses.
- Some people start shopping as soon as Thanksgiving dinner ends, a trend called “Gray Thursday,” which has led many stores to open earlier than ever.
- Retailers begin preparing months in advance for Black Friday by stocking inventory, promoting deals, and planning to manage the influx of shoppers.
- To ensure safety during Black Friday, many stores have implemented stricter measures, such as controlled entry, extra security, and organized layouts for high-demand items.
- While electronics dominate Black Friday sales, other popular items include home goods, beauty products, kitchen tools, and, surprisingly, pajamas.
How Black Friday Has Evolved Over the Years
Black Friday has changed a lot over the years, but it still shows how shopping habits are shifting. More people are shopping online, enjoying the convenience of buying from home. Despite this, the excitement of in-store deals still draws many. Black Friday now mixes old traditions with new trends, reflecting how shopping is evolving. It’s a peek into where retail might be heading in the future, with technology playing a bigger role in how we shop.