Is Black Friday Really Worth It?

American consumerism is at its best during the month of November, all thanks to Black Friday. This year, Black Friday falls on November 29th, but the one-day sales tradition has changed throughout the years. 

Many companies have begun to roll out its deals days before the official Black Friday, which begs the question is Black Friday really worth it?

A lot of people tend to wait all year to go shopping on this specific day. Especially, since it is also the start of the holiday shopping season. Big brands like Walmart, Target and Best Buy prepare themselves for what is considered a shopping madness, with what is known as sales that can’t be passed up.

However, last year according to Shoppertrak, Black Friday sales fell 12%. While Black Friday might offer some good opportunities, most of them aren’t really worth doing hour-long lines. 

Rather-Be-Shopping founder Kyle James, explained that while there are some good opportunities on this day, it also depends on what it is one is looking to buy and save on. According to James, Fitness equipment and winter clothing will be cheaper later in the winter, and “the problem is the brands you’ll find on sale are typically unrecognizable.”

The Wall Street Journal reported that stores like Walmart, Target and Best Buy recycle deals every year, even offering the same prices. 

Cyber Monday has also taken away from Black Friday, making shopping more convenient and easier to do. People no longer have to wake up at 5 in the morning to get Door Buster deals. Rather they just have to log in to their computer and do all their shopping through there. In 2015, Americans spent $3 million on Cyber Monday. 

Unless Black Friday is a tradition or research has already been done to shop smart this major American holiday might not be worth it this year.