I've done some early Black Friday/Thursday night shopping in the past, myself. I think it's good to experience shopping on Black Friday at least a few times before deciding if it's really worth the effort. Some places I recommend that you should definitely visit on Black Friday are Macy's, BestBuy, Target, and Amazon.
According to WalletHub, Consumerist, and FOXBusiness, JCPenny and Kohl's are projected to have the best deals with the most percentages off your purchase.
The best time to start shopping is as soon as you can get out of the house...after digesting dinner.
Some stores start their Black Friday deals on Thursday night.
Personally, I think the best time to go shopping, if you can stay awake after your tryptophan-induced slumber, is to go at midnight. It's kind of exciting and feels a bit like breaking the rules when you're shopping when all stores are typically closed. Having some sort of plan works too, like if you can shop for multiple people in just a few stores, you have a better chance of getting in and out more quickly.
On the other hand, people-watching is just as interesting as the shopping itself. You get to see who the true bargain hunters are, who looks lost or overwhelmed, the shoppers that can't handle all of the bags they've suddenly acquired, the tweens who begged their parents to take them shopping, and the unamused, annoyed, and irritable parents of said tweens.
*In light of recent events, just some words of advice, when in crowds or in large gatherings, always be aware of your surroundings. And if you have children, please never let them out of your sight in a crowd.
With that being said -- be smart, be savvy, and be careful. Happy shopping!
