Although Black Friday is still a few weeks away, major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target are already unveiling early deals and sale plans.

With changing consumer habits, sales that used to be confined to one day or the weekend after Thanksgiving are now stretching out over the weeks before and after the holiday. This shift gives shoppers more opportunities to strategize their holiday shopping and grab more bargains.

If you’re in the market for the latest gadgets, toys, or affordable fashion and beauty items that you’ve been eyeing, take advantage of the early savings events and flash sales on Black Friday to check items off your list.

Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare for Black Friday, including dates and places to find popular deals.

When is Black Friday 2024?

This year, Black Friday is on Friday, Nov. 29, which is the day after Thanksgiving, falling on Thursday, Nov. 28.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is recognized as one of the most significant shopping events of the year. The term “Black Friday” originated in the 1950s when Philadelphia police used it to describe the chaos caused by shoppers flocking to the city. According to YSL News, the name became popular in Philadelphia in 1961 but gained nationwide traction in the late 1980s as retailers marketed it positively, framing it as the day when stores moved from being “in the red” (losing money) into “the black” (making a profit) due to the surge in sales.

Many still accept this as the true origin of the name Black Friday, based on previous YSL News reporting.

When do Black Friday 2024 sales start?

As more people turn to online shopping, companies are introducing “Black Friday” discounts earlier and extending their duration. Numerous retailers, including Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, Staples, BJ’s Wholesale Club, and Target, are already offering price reductions. However, significant discounts are typically saved for the actual day.

When does Black Friday start on Amazon?

Amazon’s Black Friday Week kicks off on Thursday, Nov. 21, lasting until Friday, Nov. 29. Deals include discounts of up to 55% on select Amazon devices, such as Fire Smart TVs, Kindles, Ring doorbells, and Beats headphones. You can also find up to a 50% markdown on family denim from Levi’s and apparel from OROLAY.

When does Black Friday start at Walmart?

Walmart began its online early Black Friday deals on Nov. 11, with discounts reaching up to 70% on various items ranging from cookware and beauty products to toys and clothing. In-store Black Friday sales will be available from Friday, November 15, to Sunday, November 17.

Another wave of Black Friday discounts will be launched online on Monday, Nov. 25, and in physical stores at 6 a.m. local time on Friday, Nov. 29.

Walmart is also providing a 50% discount on its Walmart+ annual membership before Black Friday, which offers early access to deals, complimentary shipping and delivery, Paramount+ streaming, and more benefits.

Walmart stores will close on Thanksgiving Day and open at 6 a.m. local time on Black Friday.

When does Black Friday start at Target?

Target began its weekly deals on Sunday, Nov. 3, which will continue through the holiday season. Initial deals offered up to 50% off on floor care items and headphones, up to 30% off baby gear, and BOGO 50% off on toys like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

This week’s promotions feature 25% off Disney merchandise, Apple products such as AirPods, iPads, and Apple Watches, as well as 20% off Lego sets.

Target will remain closed on Thanksgiving and will open at 6 a.m. local time on Friday, Nov. 29. From Nov. 30 through Dec. 23, target stores will extend hours from 7 a.m. to midnight.