Where Did Black Friday Originate? History & Meaning

Where Did Black Friday Originate? History & Meaning

Euan James Euan James
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When it comes to holiday shopping, few days are as important as Black Friday. If you plan to find the best bargains available, Black Friday sales should be at the top of your list. Where did Black Friday originate? Well actuality, there is a long history behind the term that has come to represent bargain shopping for just about everyone. Find out all you need to know right here.

Black Friday, also known as the day after Thanksgiving, is an American tradition where enthusiastic shoppers wait all year for sales. It is the day after Thanksgiving when ads with amazing discount offers are released, and stores open early to accommodate the massive crowds they expect at their doors. Jump to a section below by clicking the links or read on to find out more.

Overview:

Where Did Black Friday Originate?

The term 'Black Friday' originated in the 1860s, when two investors drove up the price of gold and caused a crash that day. In the 1950s the term once again reared its head, but this time, with a different meaning. Philadelphia police used the term to refer to the day after Thanksgiving when huge crowds of shoppers went into the city and the police had to work long hours to cover the crowds and traffic. 

Within a few years, retailers attempted to put a prettier face on the day by officially calling it "Big Friday." The phrase "Black Friday" did not grow into a nationwide event until the late 1980s when retailers offered huge sales to turn losses into a profit. The popularity of Black Friday continued to grow throughout the 1970s with more and more retailers extending their hours into Thanksgiving evening.

More recently, Black Friday has become known as more than just a day for shopping; it is now considered an event. Each year on the day after Thanksgiving, thousands of people flock to stores across the world to enjoy amazing sales and fabulous doorbusters.

where did black friday originate

The Sales Phenomenon

While sales in November were already popular before 'Black Friday' was coined, the sales have only increased in popularity with retailers across the world slashing their prices. According to data from finder.com.au, 71% of Australians plan on shopping this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. In November alone, Australians typically spend over $3.9 billion on retail shopping, and this year will be no different. 

Despite Black Friday originating in the US, America is no longer the top spot for Black Friday shopping. In recent years, Brazil, Germany and France have overtaken the US in terms of interest for this shopping period. If COVID-19 has taught us anything other than keeping on top of hygiene, it's just how much people love online shopping and this Black Friday, online retails are yet again set to be the big winners. 

where did black Friday originate - the sales phenomenon

When Is Black Friday This Year?

This year in Australia, Black Friday is on the 29th of November, 2024. A lot of brands have already started promoting their Black Friday deals or have created an early access campaign. Here at Grahams, we have a large range of Black Friday jewellery and Black Friday watches on sale. 

In terms of in store shopping, while merchants have traditionally opened for business at 6 am, in recent years many have pushed opening times earlier, even overnight through midnight the night. Keep an eye out for Grahams' extended Christmas trading hours. 

Where did black friday originate - when is black friday

Our Favourite Black Friday Deals

Here at Grahams, we have a huge range of discounted jewellery and watches for everyone. Check out some of our top picks below and take advantage of our bargains this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. 

Take advantage of Black Friday by getting good deals on the more expensive items. If you're looking for an engagement ring for a romantic Christmas, look no further than this gold-plated diamond ring. This ring showcases a beautiful diamond layout, completed with a lovely coat of heavenly gold hues. 

Gold Plated Sterling Silver 1/5 Carat Diamond Trilogy Wrap Around Ring

Gold Plated Sterling Silver 1/5 Carat Diamond Trilogy Wrap Around Ring

$174.50 $349.00

Gold Plated Sterling Silver 1/5 Carat Diamond Trilogy Wrap Around Ring… read more

If men's jewellery is more your thing, be sure to check out this gold chain. Whether you're planning a day at the office or going out on the town, you can be sure that this chain will look just right.

Stainless-Steel Gold-Plated Figaro 1:3 Fancy 60cm Chain

Stainless-Steel Gold-Plated Figaro 1:3 Fancy 60cm Chain

$159.00

Stainless-Steel Gold-Plated Figaro 1:3 Fancy 60cm Chain… read more

Shopping for women's jewellery? You simply can't go wrong with this 0.45 carat diamond bracelet. Diamonds are more than just a girl's best friend; they're the foundation of every jewellery collection. 

Sterling Silver 0.45 Carat Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamonds

Sterling Silver 0.45 Carat Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamonds

$159.00

Sterling Silver 0.45 Carat Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamonds… read more

If you're more interested in jewellery sets, we have options for you. A perfect gift to celebrate an anniversary or to show off your devotion, this freshwater white pearl jewellery set offers a necklace, earrings and a bracelet. 

Freshwater White Pearl Boxed Set with Sterling Silver Clasp

Freshwater White Pearl Boxed Set with Sterling Silver Clasp

$199.50 $399.00

Also available in Black Freshwater Pearl, item reference 70251178.… read more

More into darker coloured jewellery? Check out this darker version of the sentimental freshwater pearl jewellery set.

Peacock Freshwater Pearl Boxed Set with Sterling Silver Clasp

Peacock Freshwater Pearl Boxed Set with Sterling Silver Clasp

$149.00 $399.00

Also available in White Freshwater Pearl, item reference 70251182.… read more

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