Black Friday 2024 is fast approaching, and major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon are already unveiling early deals. While the event traditionally takes place the day after Thanksgiving, the sales season has expanded well beyond that—leading some to call it “Black November.” Here’s everything you need to know to navigate this year’s Black Friday and make the most of the deals.

Thanks to changing shopping habits, what was once a one-day event has now evolved into a weeks-long shopping extravaganza. This gives shoppers more opportunities to find great prices and plan their holiday shopping ahead of time.

Whether you’re after the latest tech, toys for the kids, or the best deals on fashion and beauty products, Black Friday—especially the early promotions and flash sales—is a prime time to grab incredible discounts.

Here’s our comprehensive guide to preparing for Black Friday 2024, including when and where to find the best offers.

When Is Black Friday 2024?

This year, Black Friday falls on Friday, November 29. It takes place the day after Thanksgiving, which is Thursday, November 28.

What Is Black Friday?

Black Friday has become one of the biggest shopping events of the year. The term “Black Friday” was first coined in the 1950s by Philadelphia police officers to describe the chaos that resulted from suburban shoppers flocking to the city. By the 1960s, the term gained traction in Philadelphia, but it wasn’t until the late 1980s that it spread nationwide. Retailers rebranded the day as a financial success, with the idea that businesses went from being “in the red” (losing money) to “in the black” (profitable) thanks to the massive sales.

When Do Black Friday 2024 Sales Begin?

With more shoppers turning to online stores, retailers have started launching Black Friday deals earlier than ever before, stretching the shopping event over weeks. Discounts are already available at popular stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Staples. However, the biggest savings are often reserved for the actual Black Friday itself.

When Does Black Friday Start on Amazon?

Amazon’s Black Friday Week kicks off on Thursday, November 21, and runs through Friday, November 29. Expect major discounts, including up to 55% off select Amazon devices like Fire Smart TVs, Kindles, Ring doorbells, and Beats headphones. You’ll also find up to 50% off Levi’s denim and apparel from OROLAY.

When Does Black Friday Start at Walmart?

Walmart launched its early Black Friday deals on November 11, offering discounts of up to 70% off items like cookware, beauty products, toys, and clothing. In-store deals will be available from Friday, November 15 through Sunday, November 17.

Another round of Black Friday sales will start online on Monday, November 25, and in stores on Friday, November 29, starting at 6 a.m. local time.

Additionally, Walmart is offering 50% off its Walmart+ membership, which includes early access to deals, free shipping, Paramount+ streaming, fuel discounts, and other benefits.

Walmart stores will be closed on Thanksgiving but will open at 6 a.m. local time on Black Friday.

When Does Black Friday Start at Target?

Target started offering weekly deals as early as Sunday, November 3, and will continue through the holiday season. The first week of deals included up to 50% off floor care items and headphones, as well as up to 30% off baby gear and select home decor. You could also find a buy one, get one 50% off deal on toys like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

The deals continue, with discounts like 25% off Disney clothing, toys, bedding, and decor; markdowns on Apple products such as AirPods, iPads, and Apple Watches; and 20% off Lego sets.

Target will be closed on Thanksgiving. Stores will open at 6 a.m. on Friday, November 29, and from November 30 to December 23, Target will extend its hours from 7 a.m. to midnight.

Tips for Making the Most of Black Friday 2024

• Plan Ahead: Many retailers have already started their sales, so don’t wait until the last minute. Check your favorite stores for early deals and start making your shopping list.
• Shop Online: If you prefer shopping from home, take advantage of the online deals that begin well in advance of Black Friday. Many stores offer exclusive online discounts that are just as good as the in-store sales.
• Know When Deals Drop: Each retailer has its own schedule for releasing Black Friday deals. Make sure you know when sales start, especially for big-ticket items you’ve been eyeing.
• Be Prepared for Flash Sales: Flash sales are common on Black Friday, so be ready to act fast if you see a deal you want. These short-term sales often feature the biggest discounts.
• Check for Price Matching: Some stores offer price matching or price guarantees during Black Friday. Be sure to check with retailers to see if you can get an even better deal on items you’ve already purchased.

Final Thoughts: Shop Smart and Save Big

Black Friday 2024 is shaping up to be bigger than ever, with weeks of discounts and special promotions already in full swing. Whether you’re shopping for tech gadgets, toys, clothing, or home goods, there are plenty of opportunities to grab amazing deals.

By planning ahead, staying organized, and keeping an eye on early sales, you can score some of the best deals of the year. Keep track of your favorite retailers’ Black Friday calendars and be ready to shop early to maximize your savings.

Get ready for the shopping event of the year—Black Friday 2024 is here!