All About BLACK FRIDAY

The Black Friday phenomenon has taken the world by surprise. What started as a strategy by American retailers to increase their sales during the holidays turned into a crazy weekend with huge discounts that quickly spread to other countries, until it became a global phenomenon as it is today.

Before moving on to promotions, let's first take a closer look at Black Friday, any doubts you might have about it, and our suggestions for you.

• What is Black Friday?
• Why is it called Black Friday?
• What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
• Which is better for discounts on flights? Black Friday or Cyber-Monday?

What is Black Friday?

As mentioned above, Black Friday originated in America. It takes place the day after Thanksgiving, so it's a different day every year, and is always at the end of November. This year, the Black Friday craze begins on 23 of November, with 27 November set aside for another day of crazy promotions: Cyber Monday.

Black Friday is considered the best time to do your Christmas shopping, as almost all brands have great deals and discounts. Compared to classic sales, Black Friday allows you to buy products from current collections with unmatched discounts. Every year during Black Friday, America turns into a battleground; you've probably seen videos of American buyers fighting over televisions, shoes, and just about everything else in the store.

Why is it called Black Friday?

There are several theories about the origin of the name. In 1966, the Philadelphia Police Department officially spoke about Black Friday for the first time due to the incredible crowds in the streets. The rush to shop has resulted in extraordinary traffic jams, accidents and has occasionally also resulted in violence.

Black Friday also got its name because of how sales are accounted that day. Instead of red numbers in the accounting books, most stores are making a profit, so these numbers are marked in black.

What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday falls on the Monday of the week immediately following Black Friday, so this year it will be 27 November. In the past, these two events were marketed differently: shoppers flocked to the malls and shopping streets for Black Friday deals, while Cyber Monday deals were mainly online. Thus, people went to the stores on Friday and then shopped online on Monday, but that's no longer the case.

Since much of Black Friday is now also devoted to online sites, the two events are often simply labeled 'Black Friday Weekend'. Cyber Monday is now an extension of the Black Friday event with more offers, so don't miss out on some great deals!

What is better for flight discounts? Black Friday or Cyber-Monday?

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the perfect occasions to book for flights.

General tip: Black Friday ticket sales often represent flights where airlines have empty seats to fill, so once they're gone, there's no way to find more. In short, if you wait until Cyber Monday and don't watch Black Friday flight deals, you may be missing out on some great opportunities.

Ready to travel? Compare and contrast our international flight deals and book your tickets on BudgetAir.co.uk.

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