Most people, when they think of Thanksgiving, imagine getting together with family. When I think of Thanksgiving, I think of all the stuff that’s going to be on sale that week. I don’t think of the wonderful food I’ll eat or the football games that’ll be on. I look forward to the Target ads and going to Walmart at midnight to watch the rush of people grabbing their gifts for their friends and family. I love how much of a madhouse each store is on Black Friday.
It’s exciting!
For the past three years, my mom and I would leave right after dinner on Thanksgiving just to be in line at a store. Every year, a store called Herbergers would give out gift cards to the first 200 people in line. The gift cards ranged from $5 to $500. The year before the store closed, we were entering the doors to get our gift cards. This one woman was trying to budge me in line so I shoved myself in front of her and grabbed my card. Instantly after I did that, she grabbed her card and screamed. This woman got the $500 gift card because I wouldn’t let her budge me. I was so mad, but I didn’t let that ruin my shopping experience.
Thanksgiving week is full of goodies. There are three days of deals going on: Thanksgiving night for those early deals, Black Friday and then Small Business Saturday. If you don’t know what Small Business Saturday is, you’re missing out. This is a day that contributes to all the small businesses. Most of the time, people either leave town or go to bigger department stores for Black Friday shopping, leaving the small businesses empty. This Saturday encourages people to “shop small” and support local businesses. Another perk on this day is that most small businesses won’t take American Express cards because of their high interchange fees. But thankfully, American Express sponsors this event so you will be able to use your American Express card at most of these stores.
Here are five reasons Black Friday is one of the best times of the year…
1. It’s an excuse to spend money.
If you’re anything like me, I spend more money than I should. When I’m upset, I go shopping. When I’m bored, I go shopping. Retail therapy is a real thing, and I believe it works.
2. You can get good deals not only for your friends and family but also for yourself.
Black Friday is all about buying Christmas presents for other people. Why not take this time to buy that necklace you’ve always wanted or cute shoes that are now 50% off? You deserve it.
3. You get the day off from work or school.
For most jobs other than retail, restaurants or grocery stores, you don’t have to work or go to school on this day. Black Friday is basically a holiday.
4. It gets you out away from family (if you need a break).
This might not be for everyone, but if you have spent most of Thanksgiving week with family and need a break, Black Friday shopping is a perfect getaway.
5. There is a lot of time to watch the craziness of people!
You don’t even have to buy something on Black Friday to participate. You can walk simply around your local stores and be entertained by all the people rushing to get their gifts. There are even fights that will happen.
My most favorite part of Black Friday is all the Christmas cheer. Christmas music is playing, window displays are decorated in red and green, and when the shopping is over, the gift wrapping begins.
If you don’t like the anxiety that comes with Black Friday, there’s always Cyber Monday. That way, you can still get some great deals by just sitting in your PJs and shopping online at home.
Thank you for reading. Please stay safe out there this Black Friday and get some good deals!
XOXO, Bailey
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