For those brave enough to wake up at 4 a.m. stand in line and face the crowds on “Black Friday” deserve a gold medal. The day after a food marathon of turkey, potatoes, gravy and green bean casserole, millions of Americans role out of bed and gear up for a day full of pushing and shoving and I commend them. Since November hit I’ve been thinking about the history behind Black Friday and found out some very interesting facts.
1. The Macy’s Day Parade
This is where it all began. Department stores like Macy’s began to sponsor parades—originally the day after Thanksgiving. These parades served as holiday advertising campaigns for the stores. Directly after they were over people would rush to these department stores and shop. Thus creating the tradition of the Friday after Thanksgiving as the first holiday shopping day of the season.
2. “Black Friday” is not the biggest shopping day of the year
Yes, you heard it correctly. According to an online news source the Saturday before Christmas is the most shopping intensive day of the year. Thanks to Americans procrastination and extreme schedules, last minute shopping has become the new thing.
3. Death by Shopping
Unfortunately, people take this day way to seriously and tragedy strikes. In 2008, Jdimytai Damour, a Long Island Wal-mart employee was trampled to death while hundreds of shoppers ran on top of him to get into the store. The paramedics who came to the scene were also trampled and seriously hurt. All together, five employees were sent to the hospital.
4. The Numbers from 2014
133.7 million people shopped on “Black Friday”.
$380 is the average spent on “Black Friday” weekend.
55% of Americans shopped.
5. S.W.I.
Never heard of this one… Shopping While Intoxicated. According to the RetailMeNot coupon site survey, in 2014, 12 percent of Thanksgiving Day shoppers were under the influence of alcohol. Yes, shopping and being drunk are now two things that have come together. It seems those of us who still want the shopping done can sweat off the drinks from the night before.
6. The Games Have Already Begun
Places like Sears, JCPenny, Target, and Wal-mart have already started “Black Friday” style specials. In early November, these department stores began to promote special deals in-store and online. These early birds are definitely catching the worm, hyping up the antics with such early promotions. It’s safe to say “Black Friday” isn’t just one day anymore it’s a month-long shopping spectacular .
7. Predictions for 2015
Many begin planning out their “Black Friday” event months in advance. A prediction made by Twice website believes the lowest deal for a laptop will be $95 and the average will be $300. They also believe the lowest price for a 60-inch TV will be $450 and a 70-inch will be $900. Though many people will not be attending the festivities, it will feel like every person on the planet is in line. Advices from a “Black Friday” goer: go early, move fast and fight for what you deserve!
