Every year, Black Friday marks a significant day for retailers and consumers alike, serving as a bellwether for the holiday shopping season. In 2025, this annual event continues to attract throngs of bargain hunters eager to take advantage of substantial discounts, with some items priced as low as 75% off for early shoppers. As Thanksgiving approaches, retailers are preparing for a surge in sales, hoping to turn a profit after a challenging year impacted by tariffs and economic pressures.
The origins of the term “Black Friday” trace back to the 1950s in Philadelphia. According to the History Channel, the phrase initially described the chaos experienced by police as large crowds flooded the city the day after Thanksgiving, ahead of the annual Army-Navy football game. The influx of suburban shoppers created a hectic environment, leading law enforcement to work extended shifts to manage the crowds and increased shoplifting.
By 1961, the term had gained traction in Philadelphia, prompting local merchants to attempt a rebranding to “Big Friday” in an effort to shed its negative connotation. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that retailers successfully repackaged the day to highlight its profitability, coining the idea of moving from “red to black,” indicating a shift from financial losses to gains.
For many, Black Friday shopping has become a ritual. One shopper, Sharon Cox, a retired professor from the University of Jamestown, shared her experiences of braving the early morning crowds in pursuit of discounts. As a mother of three, she recalls the strategic planning required to make the trip worthwhile, often leaving home before dawn. Despite the chaos and stress, she found herself caught in the allure of marketing strategies designed to entice consumers into spending more than intended.
Cox reflects on how societal pressures and clever advertising can lead to impulsive purchases, a phenomenon that continues to resonate with shoppers today. “I learned how easily people were able to be lured into spending way more than planned,” she said. The lure of the deals often overpowered logical considerations, leading her to chase after toys that would likely break within days.
The atmosphere on Black Friday can be frenetic, with shoppers racing to secure the best deals. While many are eager to join the hunt, others are beginning to question the value of enduring long lines and crowded stores. As consumers weigh their options, some choose to forgo the early morning excursions in favor of online shopping, which has grown significantly in recent years.
In light of changing shopping habits, it will be interesting to observe how retailers adapt their strategies for Black Friday 2025. Will the traditional in-store frenzy continue to draw shoppers, or will online sales dominate this year’s holiday shopping landscape?
As the holiday season approaches, the anticipation surrounding Black Friday remains palpable. Retailers are banking on this day to help boost their annual profits, while shoppers are strategizing on how best to navigate the discounts and deals. Whether in-store or online, the quest for savings is a universal experience that transcends generations and continues to evolve with the times.
