Why Is It Called Black Friday? Unravelling the Origins and Myths

Black Friday falls on the day after Thanksgiving. It is best known for its massive discounts, flash sales, and for marking the official start of the holiday shopping season. Across the world, this day has become synonymous with unbeatable deals, long queues, and record-breaking sales. Yet, few people truly know how the term “Black Friday” originated or how it evolved into a global shopping phenomenon. 

In this article, we uncover the fascinating history behind Black Friday and how it became the most anticipated shopping day of the year.

Origins of the Name

The most widely accepted explanation for the name Black Friday traces back to the 1960s in Philadelphia. The story goes that the Philadelphia Police Department came up with the term “Black Friday” to describe the huge crowds and heavy traffic that filled the city after Thanksgiving. Shoppers and tourists caused chaos, and police officers started calling the busy day “Black Friday.”

Another popular theory links the name to accounting practices. In the past, accountants used red ink to mark financial losses and black ink to record profits. As retailers moved from losses to profits during the holiday shopping season, the day after Thanksgiving became known as Black Friday.

Myths and Misconceptions

Over time, many myths and misconceptions have emerged about this promotional event.

One common myth claims that the term refers to the day retailers finally turn a profit for the year, moving from being in the red to being in the black. In reality, most retailers make profits well before Black Friday, so this explanation is inaccurate.

Another false claim suggests that the term originated from the slave trade. It allegedly describes the day after Thanksgiving when traders sold enslaved people at discounted prices. However, there is no historical evidence to support this, and historians widely dismiss it as a fabrication.

Evolution and Marketing

The term Black Friday originally carried negative connotations. However, it has evolved into one of the most anticipated and celebrated shopping events of the year.

In the 1980s and 1990s, retailers across the United States made Black Friday famous by offering big discounts and special deals to attract shoppers. It soon became known for early store openings, long lines, and great bargains. 

With the growth of e-commerce, this promotional event has moved beyond physical stores. Online retailers now run their own campaigns, allowing shoppers to find deals from the comfort of their homes.

In recent years, Cyber Monday has joined the tradition, offering a digital extension of the shopping frenzy focused entirely on online discounts and promotions.

Conclusion

Black Friday has become a global event that marks the start of the festive season. Although people still debate its origins, everyone now recognises it for its amazing discounts and exciting savings opportunities.

For students and professionals, it provides the chance to invest in their future. Many institutions, including Regenesys Education, offer discounted tuition fees, making quality education more affordable.

Whether you’re beginning a new course, advancing your studies, or exploring online learning, this promotional period is the time to enrol. 

Visit the Regenesys Education website to learn more about our exciting Black Friday offers for 2025.

Black Friday – Unravelling the Origins and Myths – FAQ