Black Friday: History & Smart Shopping Tips

The term "Black Friday" conjures images of massive crowds, incredible deals, and the official start of the holiday shopping season. Many people believe the name stems from retailers finally turning a profit for the year, moving from being "in the red" to "in the black." While this is a neat and tidy explanation, the true origin is much grittier and less glamorous. Understanding the history can help you navigate the sales frenzy with a clearer perspective, and with modern tools like Buy Now, Pay Later, you can shop smart without the financial stress.

The Real Origin: A Tale of Chaos in Philadelphia

The term "Black Friday" was first used not by accountants, but by police officers in Philadelphia in the 1950s. They used it to describe the chaotic and unpleasant day after Thanksgiving when hordes of suburban shoppers and tourists flooded into the city for the annual Army-Navy football game. This created a nightmare for law enforcement, who had to work extra-long shifts to deal with massive traffic jams, overcrowded sidewalks, and an uptick in shoplifting. For them, the day was anything but positive—it was dark and difficult, hence "Black Friday." The term was a local pejorative for years, a headache that retailers in the area simply had to endure.

From Negative to Positive: How Retailers Reclaimed the Name

Philadelphia retailers initially hated the term and tried to rebrand the day as "Big Friday" in the early 1960s, but the new name never stuck. By the late 1980s, however, retailers across the country found a way to spin the term's meaning. They began promoting the now-commonplace explanation that Black Friday was the day their profits moved into "the black." This marketing narrative was far more appealing to consumers and successfully transformed a term associated with chaos into one linked with great deals and holiday cheer. This shift in perception helped solidify Black Friday as the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States, a trend confirmed by data from the National Retail Federation showing millions of Americans participate annually.

Navigating Black Friday in 2025 with Modern Financial Tools

Today, Black Friday is a multi-day event that extends online and includes Cyber Monday. The pressure to spend can be immense, and it's easy to get swept up in the excitement and damage your budget. To avoid this, planning is crucial. Before you start shopping online, create a strict budget and a list of what you actually need. This is where modern financial tools can make a significant difference. Using pay later apps allows you to spread the cost of larger purchases over time, making them more manageable. With Gerald, you can use our Buy Now, Pay Later feature without worrying about interest or hidden fees, which helps you stick to your financial plan. For more ideas on managing your money during the holidays, check out our budgeting tips.

Shop Smarter, Not Harder

The key to a successful Black Friday is to avoid impulse buys and focus on genuine value. Compare prices across different retailers like Amazon and Walmart, and don't assume a doorbuster deal is always the best price. Sometimes, you might find that an unexpected expense pops up or a truly unmissable deal requires a bit of extra cash. Instead of turning to high-interest credit cards, an instant cash advance app can provide the funds you need. When you need a financial boost, reliable cash advance apps like Gerald offer a safety net. After you make a purchase with a BNPL advance, you unlock the ability to get a cash advance transfer with absolutely no fees, giving you flexibility when you need it most.

Beyond the Sales: Focusing on Financial Wellness

While Black Friday deals can be tempting, it's important not to sacrifice your long-term financial health for short-term savings. Racking up debt can lead to stress and set you back on your financial goals. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau warns consumers to be wary of overspending during the holidays. A better approach is to use the shopping season as an opportunity to practice good financial habits. Use tools that help you manage your money, like Gerald, and focus on building a strong financial foundation. By prioritizing your financial wellness, you can enjoy the holidays without the guilt or worry of debt. If an emergency does arise, knowing you have access to an emergency cash advance can provide peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions about Black Friday

What is the true origin of the name Black Friday?
The term was coined by Philadelphia police in the 1950s to describe the traffic and chaos caused by shoppers and tourists the day after Thanksgiving. It had negative connotations before retailers rebranded it in the 1980s.
Is Black Friday still the best day for deals?
While Black Friday offers significant discounts, many retailers now spread their sales throughout November and December. It's always a good idea to compare prices and shop around to ensure you're getting the best deal.
How can I avoid overspending on Black Friday?
Create a detailed budget and a shopping list before the sales begin. Use tools like fee-free Buy Now, Pay Later services to manage large purchases and avoid using high-interest credit cards. Track your spending carefully to stay within your limits.
What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
Black Friday traditionally focused on in-store deals, while Cyber Monday was created to encourage online shopping. Today, the lines have blurred, and most Black Friday sales are available both in-store and online, often lasting through the entire weekend into Cyber Monday.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Gerald is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon, Walmart, The New York Times, National Retail Federation, and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.