Hey there, Lincoln shoppers! As we gear up for the biggest shopping day of the year, let’s take a moment to uncover the mystery behind its name. This article is part of our Black Friday Guide 2024, so buckle up for a wild ride through history!
The Name That Stuck
Black Friday. It sounds pretty gloomy, right? You’d think it was named after some terrible event, like a stock market crash or a natural disaster. But nope, it’s all about shopping! So, how did this day of deals and discounts end up with such a dark name?
A Philly Thing
Believe it or not, the term “Black Friday” wasn’t invented by some clever marketing team. It actually started in Philadelphia in the 1960s. The city’s police weren’t too happy about the crazy crowds and traffic jams that popped up the day after Thanksgiving. They called it “Black Friday” because it was such a headache for them.
From Headache to Holiday
At first, stores weren’t thrilled about the name. Who wants to shop on a day that sounds like bad news? But over time, they decided to roll with it. They came up with a new story: Black Friday was the day their profits went from “in the red” (losing money) to “in the black” (making money). Pretty clever, huh?
The Evolution of Black Friday
From One Day to a Season
Remember when Black Friday was just one day? Those times are long gone! Now it’s more like Black November. Stores start their sales earlier and earlier each year. Some even kick off right after Halloween. It’s like they can’t wait to get the party started!
Online Shopping Takes Over
These days, you don’t even have to leave your couch to score Black Friday deals. Online shopping has changed the game. Cyber Monday joined the party, and now we have a weekend of digital deals. It’s perfect for those who’d rather click than camp out in front of a store.
The Dark Side of Black Friday
Crowd Control Chaos
Black Friday has seen its share of wild moments. There have been stampedes, fights over toys, and even some injuries. It’s like people lose their minds over a good deal! Stores have had to improve their game with better crowd control and security.
Worker Woes
Let’s not forget about the folks working on Black Friday. While we’re out hunting for bargains, they’re dealing with long hours and cranky customers. Some people think stores should give their workers a break and stay closed on Thanksgiving. It’s a hot topic every year.
Black Friday Around the World
Guess what? Black Friday isn’t just an American thing anymore. It’s gone global! Countries all over the world have jumped on the bandwagon. From the UK to Brazil, people are lining up for deals. It’s like the whole world decided to join our shopping party.
The Future of Black Friday
So, what’s next for Black Friday? Some say it’s losing its spark. With deals all year round and online shopping taking over, the excitement of that one big day might be fading. But don’t count it out just yet! Stores are always coming up with new ways to keep us interested.
Tips for Black Friday Shopping in Lincoln
- Make a list (and check it twice): Know what you want before you hit the stores.
- Do your homework: Compare prices online before you buy.
- Set a budget: It’s easy to get carried away with all those deals!
- Be nice: Remember, store workers are people too. A little kindness goes a long way.
- Shop local: Don’t forget about our Lincoln businesses. They’ve got some great deals too!
The Environmental Impact
Here’s something to consider: all this shopping isn’t great for the planet. All those packages, all that driving around… it adds up! Some folks are pushing for a “Green Friday” instead, focusing on eco-friendly products and sustainable shopping habits. It’s food for thought as we fill our carts.
Black Friday by the Numbers
Want some mind-blowing stats? In 2023, Americans spent over $9 billion on Black Friday alone. That’s a lot of TVs, toys, and toasters! And get this: the average shopper spent about $300. Makes you wonder what this year’s numbers will look like, doesn’t it?
So there you have it, Lincoln! The next time someone asks you why it’s called Black Friday, you can wow them with your knowledge. Whether you’re planning to brave the crowds or shop from your sofa, remember the history behind this shopping extravaganza. Happy hunting, and may the deals be ever in your favor!
Sources: usatoday.com
Header Image Source: Ashkan Forouzani on Unsplash
