All About Black Friday: How to Find Bargains

The holiday season is right around the corner, and for many Canadians, Black Friday marks the official kickoff to holiday shopping. Whether you're hunting for the perfect gift, upgrading your home appliances, or treating yourself to something special, Black Friday offers a golden opportunity to snag incredible deals. But with so many options and retailers offering discounts, how do you make sure you're getting the best bargains without getting overwhelmed?

Let’s break down what Black Friday is, its history in Canada, and how you can maximize your savings this year.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is an annual shopping event that takes place the day after Thanksgiving in the United States. Traditionally, it was a day when retailers slashed prices to kick off the holiday shopping season. Another explanation is that it was when U.S. retailers’ accounts went from being “in the red” to “in the black.” Over the years, it has become a global phenomenon, with many countries, including Canada, adopting the tradition.

This year Black Friday will take place on November 29th, so mark your calendars!

While it may have started as an American event, Canadians have fully embraced Black Friday as an exciting opportunity to shop for everything from electronics and clothing to home goods and beauty products.

The rise of Black Friday in Canada

Although Black Friday was initially a U.S.-centric event, Canadians started catching on to the savings in the early 2010s. Around 2011, retailers in Canada began offering Black Friday discounts, and the event quickly gained momentum. Today, it’s one of the most anticipated shopping days in the country, with both brick-and-mortar stores and online retailers participating.

For many Canadians, Black Friday is an opportunity to stock up on items for the holiday season, including gifts, decorations, electronics, and even travel deals. In fact, it's often seen as the unofficial start of the holiday shopping frenzy, followed by Cyber Monday, which offers similar discounts on tech and online purchases. It’s followed by GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity that encourages people to support their communities and the world.

Tips for finding the best bargains on Black Friday

While Black Friday can be a great time to save money, it can also be a bit overwhelming due to the sheer volume of sales and promotions. To help you make the most of it, here are a few strategies to find the best deals:

Do your research early

Start looking at deals before Black Friday even begins. Many retailers release sneak peeks or early bird discounts leading up to the big day. Make a list of items you're interested in and compare prices across multiple stores—both in-person and online. This will help you identify real bargains and avoid impulse buys that aren’t actually discounted.

Set a budget

It’s easy to get carried away with all the tempting discounts, but it's important to stick to your budget. Plan ahead and prioritize the items you need, whether it’s a new phone, winter clothing, or home appliances. Avoid buying just because something is on sale—remember, savings only matter if you're buying something you'll actually use!

Sign up for newsletters

Many retailers offer exclusive Black Friday deals to their email subscribers. Sign up for your favorite stores’ newsletters ahead of time so you can receive early access to sales, special promotions, or coupon codes.

Watch for price matching

Some Canadian retailers offer price matching on Black Friday, meaning they'll match a competitor's price if you find a better deal elsewhere. If you're planning on purchasing a big-ticket item, like a TV or laptop, check multiple stores to see if you can get a better price by leveraging this policy.

Shop online for convenience

While in-store shopping can be fun and exciting, it can also be chaotic and crowded. If you’re looking to avoid the madness, consider shopping online for Black Friday deals. Many online retailers offer the same discounts as their physical stores, and the convenience of shopping from home allows you to compare prices and check reviews before making a decision.

Look for extended sales

Black Friday isn’t always just a one-day event. Many retailers extend their sales throughout the weekend, or even into the following week, with promotions lasting until Cyber Monday (December 2nd this year). If you miss a particular deal on Friday, don’t fret—you might still have a chance to catch it later.

Check for insurance and protection plans

If you're purchasing expensive electronics or appliances, don't forget to consider insurance or extended protection plans. Many retailers offer these services at a discounted rate during Black Friday sales. If you’re investing in high-value items like laptops, smartphones, or appliances, it's worth considering the peace of mind that comes with added protection. If you buy a really big-ticket item, make sure to update your home insurance provider so that your coverage stays accurate.

Be aware of scams

As with any major shopping event, it’s essential to be cautious and aware of potential scams. Be on the lookout for “too good to be true” offers or websites that seem suspicious. Stick to reputable retailers and make sure any website you shop from is secure (look for the padlock icon next to the URL).

Ready, set, shop!

Black Friday is an exciting time for Canadian shoppers looking to save big and start their holiday shopping on the right foot. By doing your research, setting a budget, and taking advantage of early deals, you can find great bargains on everything from electronics to winter gear. Whether you choose to shop in-store or online, the key is to be prepared, stay focused on your needs, and enjoy the experience.

With Black Friday just around the corner on November 29th, now is the perfect time to start planning your shopping strategy. Happy bargain hunting!