What is Black Friday called?
Black Friday, one of the most anticipated shopping days of the year, has been a significant part of the American retail landscape for decades. However, the name itself has sparked curiosity and debate among shoppers and historians alike. The question “What is Black Friday called?” delves into the origins and evolution of this shopping phenomenon. This article explores the various names associated with Black Friday and the reasons behind its title.
The term “Black Friday” originally gained popularity in the 1960s, when it was used by Philadelphia police to describe the chaos that ensued on the day after Thanksgiving. The heavy traffic and crowded streets were so overwhelming that they were said to turn the city “black” with the sheer volume of people. However, this description was not meant to be derogatory, but rather a straightforward observation of the situation.
Over time, the term took on a different meaning in the retail industry. In the early 1980s, a group of merchants in the city of Philadelphia started using the term “Black Friday” to promote shopping in the city. They wanted to encourage shoppers to visit the stores on the day after Thanksgiving, as it was believed that this would help boost the local economy.
The name “Black Friday” became widely adopted by retailers across the country, and it began to signify the beginning of the holiday shopping season. It was believed that the heavy sales on Black Friday would “blacken” the company’s ledger, or financial records, indicating a significant increase in profits.
However, not everyone is a fan of the term “Black Friday.” Some argue that it has negative connotations, suggesting that retailers are pushing consumers to overspend and engage in chaotic shopping behavior. In response, alternative names have been proposed, such as “Buy Nothing Day,” “Give Thanks Friday,” and “Small Business Saturday.”
“Buy Nothing Day” was created by the Adbusters media group in Canada in 1992 to encourage people to question the importance of consumerism. “Give Thanks Friday” is a newer name that emphasizes the importance of gratitude and family during the holiday season. “Small Business Saturday” was launched by American Express in 2010 to promote shopping at local businesses on the day after Black Friday.
Despite the various names and interpretations, Black Friday remains a powerful symbol of the holiday shopping season. Whether you prefer the traditional name or one of the alternatives, it’s clear that Black Friday has become an integral part of American culture and the retail industry. As the debate over what to call this day continues, one thing is certain: Black Friday will continue to be a day of intense shopping and significant sales for retailers across the country.
