Mark Your Calendar- Discover the Dates of Thanksgiving and Black Friday This Year!

When is Thanksgiving and Black Friday? These two significant dates in the American calendar have a long-standing tradition and are eagerly awaited by many. Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, marks the beginning of the holiday season, while Black Friday follows closely behind, offering shoppers the opportunity to find great deals and kick off the Christmas shopping season. In this article, we will delve into the history, significance, and activities surrounding these two iconic days.

Thanksgiving, originally a harvest festival, has its roots in the early 17th century when the Pilgrims, who had settled in what is now the United States, shared a feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. The feast was to give thanks for the harvest and the survival of the Pilgrims. Over time, Thanksgiving has evolved into a day of family gatherings, feasting, and expressing gratitude. It is a time when people come together to share a meal, often featuring traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie.

Following Thanksgiving, Black Friday arrives on the day after, marking the beginning of the holiday shopping season. The term “Black Friday” was first used in the 1960s to describe the heavy traffic and crowded shopping malls on this day. However, the term has since taken on a new meaning, as it now signifies the day when retailers start to turn a profit for the year, moving from “in the red” to “in the black.”

Black Friday has become a highly anticipated event for shoppers, with stores offering significant discounts and promotions. It is a day when people rush to stores, both in-person and online, to take advantage of the best deals. The shopping frenzy has even extended to Cyber Monday, which occurs the following Monday, allowing online shoppers to participate in the Black Friday spirit.

While Thanksgiving and Black Friday are primarily celebrated in the United States, their influence has spread globally. Many countries have adopted similar shopping traditions, with Black Friday sales now taking place in various parts of the world. This has led to increased competition among retailers and a growing trend of early holiday shopping.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the negative impacts of Black Friday on the environment and the pressure it places on consumers. As a result, some people have chosen to participate in alternative shopping events, such as Small Business Saturday, which encourages support for local businesses, and Buy Nothing Day, which promotes a day of non-consumption.

In conclusion, Thanksgiving and Black Friday are two pivotal dates in the American calendar, each with its own unique significance. Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and family, while Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Despite the growing concerns about the negative aspects of Black Friday, these dates continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many, as they bring together traditions, shopping, and the spirit of giving.