Americans love shopping… but they love sales even more. The biggest sales event of the year happens on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you're studying abroad in the United States, you're about to experience what these two days are all about: shopping, deals, and the start of the holiday season.
What are Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
Black Friday happens the Friday after Thanksgiving, and it's basically the Super Bowl of shopping. It marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season, and stores offer huge discounts to attract shoppers. This used to happen on one day, but now these deals are spread out throughout the weekend, and sometimes even the week before. Some Americans take Black Friday very seriously. They line up outside stores as early as 5 AM to get the best deals!
But wait - there are two of these days? Yes, you read that right. Cyber Monday is the online version of Black Friday, and happens the Monday after Thanksgiving. Since it's online, shopping on this day is more relaxed. Perfect for browsing deals in your PJs with a cup of hot cocoa.
Why Are These Days So Popular?
Good question. Why would millions of Americans voluntarily wake up before dawn to get the best shopping deals?
Here are some reasons why:
- The savings are incredible. Many stores offer their biggest discounts of the year. For big purchases like electronics, waiting for Black Friday or Cyber Monday can save you hundreds of dollars.
- It's become a tradition. For some families, Black Friday shopping isn't just about buying stuff; it's quality time together with a mission. Your host siblings may have childhood memories of Black Friday adventures with their parents.
- Christmas gift-giving is a big deal in the United States. People often buy presents for extended family, friends, coworkers, teachers, and more. Black Friday and Cyber Monday help them afford these gifts to make their loved ones feel special. Stores play Christmas music and decorate for the holidays to get people in the spirit.
- The experience itself is thrilling. And Americans love a challenge. The victory of getting the best deal can be exciting for people. Many items on Black Friday are limited quantity sales, so it can feel like a win to get the last TV at $400 off!
How to Make the Most of It
- Talk to your host family. Ask your host family if they have plans to go shopping or browse online deals. They may have Black Friday or Cyber Monday traditions that you can participate in! And most importantly, they can show you what stores have the best deals.
- Set a budget. When everything is on sale, it's easy to overspend. Decide on your budget before you start shopping and stick to it. You still have months left in your exchange year, so you might want to save money for other experiences or souvenirs to bring home.
- Make a list. Just because it's on sale doesn't mean you need it. Make a wishlist of things you actually want. These could be gifts for your host family and family back home, tech gadgets like headphones (these are often on major sale), winter clothes, and school supplies.
- Research deals online. Many stores advertise their Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals early. Compare prices across different stores to find the best deal on the same items. If you are shopping in person, this helps you plan which stores to visit and check when they open.
- Have fun! Don't get too stressed out over the crowds and the competition. Enjoy the experience, and get a first-hand view into American consumer culture!
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are when the U.S. starts seriously getting into the holiday spirit. Even if you don't buy anything, you'll hear Christmas music playing, see lights going up, and your host family may even start decorating their Christmas tree. Shopping or not, it'll be a weekend to remember.