Black Friday 2024 is fast approaching, traditionally falling on the day after Thanksgiving. This year, it’s on November 29. While the significant shopping day has evolved over the years, it remains one of the most anticipated moments for consumers eager to snag deep discounts and deals.
Google searches for Black Friday deals often skyrocket leading up to the day as retailers prepare to open their doors and entice shoppers with early-morning doorbusters and online markdowns. Crowds are expected to flock to malls, big-box stores, and various local shops, all revved up to kick off the holiday shopping season.
Retailers across Connecticut will once again participate, with early store openings set to accommodate eager shoppers. At the Connecticut Post Mall, for example, shoppers can count on stores opening as early as 5:00 AM, with many retailers extending their hours to keep pace with the shopping frenzy.
For those considering online shopping, major platforms like Amazon are already rolling out Black Friday specials, with everything from electronics to home goods slated for significant discounts. Customers are advised, though, to expect some limits on same-day delivery due to the high volume of orders.
Shopping Hours for Connecticut Retailers
Here's what shoppers can expect:
- Target: Open at 6:00 AM
- Walmart: Open at 6:00 AM
- Best Buy: Open at 6:00 AM
- Kohl's: Opens early at 5:00 AM
- JCPenney: Also kicks off at 5:00 AM
Most major retailers are expected to follow similar patterns, so here’s a tip: always check your local stores as some hours may vary by location. Many businesses are opting for extended hours on Thanksgiving Day to start the shopping frenzy even earlier.
Interestingly, Black Friday is not classified as either a federal or state holiday, which means many financial institutions and government offices will be open. Banks and credit unions may have limited hours, so it would be wise to check hours before heading out.
What’s Open and Closed on Black Friday?
With the holiday season upon us, here's the scoop:
Retail Establishments
Most retail and clothing stores will be open. Popular locations like Home Depot, Lowe's, and various local shops join the fray, ensuring customers have plenty of options to peruse the shelves.
Financial Institutions
You'll find most banks open on Black Friday. According to the State of Connecticut Department of Banking, banks are not required to close on recognized holidays, leading most establishments to operate as usual.
Post Offices and Delivery Services
Despite the holiday hustle, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will be operating on regular hours, which means your mail will still be delivered as expected. Delivery services like UPS and FedEx also pledge to maintain their schedules, albeit with some variations; FedEx Freight will be closed due to the holiday. FedEx Express will run on a modified schedule.
Government Offices
Government offices, including DMV locations, will remain open on Friday. Individual branch hours may vary, so it’s wise to check beforehand.
Stock Markets
Stock markets will be open, though with earlier closing hours at 1:00 PM EST for both the NYSE and Nasdaq, whereas bond markets will wrap up slightly later at 2:00 PM.
Schools
For students, schools across various regions will be closed for the Thanksgiving break, but classes are set to resume on December 2, at least in Florida.
Special Deals and Discounts
Many stores are planning to announce their best deals far and wide prior to Black Friday. Shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of these promotions by making their shopping lists early and arriving at stores before they officially open.
While each year brings its own unique deals, some of the most popular items typically include electronics, toys, and trendy apparel. Electronic giants like Apple, Best Buy, and Walmart are already promoting deep discounts on last season’s devices and this year’s hottest gifts. Consumers are expected to encounter exclusive savings, with some items going for up to 70% off.
Dining Out on Black Friday
For families opting to grab breakfast or lunch out, most restaurants will be open. Some may offer seasonal specials to attract holiday shoppers. It is always prudent to call local dining establishments if patrons want to check specific hours and menu offerings.
Weather Conditions
It's worth noting the weather forecast as shopping season kicks off. Colder temperatures are expected, especially after the Thanksgiving storms, making it all the more cozy to shop indoors!
A Final Thought
From shopping to dining, Black Friday remains one of the most anticipated shopping days of the year. With the pandemic behind us, many businesses are pulling out all the stops to attract consumers once again. For shoppers, sticking to the budget, planning the shopping route, and packing some snacks can go a long way toward making this shopping spree both enjoyable and productive. Happy shopping!
