The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes the most anticipated shopping event of the year – Black Friday. As savvy shoppers, we all want to make the most of our money and snag the best deals. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you navigate Black Friday 2023 like a pro. From early sales to the main event, we’ve got you covered.
The Early Start: Pre-Black Friday Sales
Retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart have been enticing shoppers with early Black Friday sales in recent years. These pre-Black Friday sales offer a great opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping. While not all items may be discounted during this time, it’s a smart move to purchase items that have a history of selling out quickly, such as popular toys. Additionally, if you anticipate longer shipping times or need personalized items, making your purchases early ensures they will arrive in time for the holidays.
However, it’s important to note that while pre-Black Friday sales may offer impressive deals, it’s possible to find even better discounts during the main Black Friday event. To stay updated on the latest sales, we recommend signing up for retailers’ email newsletters and creating accounts on their websites. This way, you’ll be notified of exclusive deals and can quickly complete your purchases without worrying about items selling out.
What to Buy on Black Friday
TVs and Big-Ticket Tech
Black Friday has long been known as the best time to score deals on TVs and other big-ticket tech items. While some televisions may have been on sale during early events like Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, the best deals are often reserved for Black Friday. Retailers like Best Buy and Walmart offer significant discounts on electronics such as laptops, wireless headphones, and soundbars. So if you’re in the market for a new TV or tech gadget, Black Friday is the sweet spot.
Small Kitchen Appliances
If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen with new gadgets, Black Friday is the perfect time to do so. NerdWallet’s holiday sale price-tracking data shows that kitchen appliances like air fry ovens, KitchenAid mixers, and Nespresso coffee machines hit their lowest prices on Cyber Monday. So whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a coffee lover, keep an eye out for great deals on small kitchen appliances during the Black Friday shopping season.
Winter Apparel
In a surprising twist, Black Friday may offer better deals on winter clothing than expected. With warmer weather in many regions, retailers may be eager to clear out winter apparel inventory. This presents an opportunity for shoppers to find great discounts on parkas, beanies, sweaters, and other winter essentials. So when you’re browsing for clothes on Black Friday, don’t forget to check out the winter apparel section.
Verified Black Friday Sale Dates
The official Black Friday sale date for 2023 is November 24, the day after Thanksgiving. However, it’s important to note that many retailers extend their sales beyond Black Friday. Cyber Monday, which falls on November 27 this year, is another major shopping event to look out for. To ensure you don’t miss out on any deals, mark these dates on your calendar and be prepared to snag the best discounts.
| Retailer | Black Friday 2023 Sale Dates |
| Academy Sports & Outdoors | November 19 – November 25 |
| Amazon | November 17 – November 27 |
| Bath & Body Works | November 20 |
| Best Buy | November 17 – November 25 |
| Costco | November 23 |
| CVS Pharmacy | November 19 – November 27 |
| Hobby Lobby | November 19 – November 27 |
| Home Depot | November 23 |
| JCPenney | November 24 |
| Joann Fabric & Crafts | November 19 – November 27 |
| Kohl’s | November 19 – November 25 |
| Macy’s | November 19 – November 26 |
| Michaels | November 22 |
| Old Navy | November 23 |
| Sam’s Club | November 23 |
| Sephora | November 24 – November 27 |
| Starbucks | November 16 |
| Target | November 17 – November 25 |
| ULTA Beauty | November 19 – November 27 |
| Victoria’s Secret | November 22 |
| Walgreens | November 19 – November 27 |
| Walmart | November 22 – November 27 |
| Retailer | Black Friday 2023 Sale Dates | Description of Deals |
| 5.11 Tactical | Expected to start on November 23 | 5.11 Tactical is expected to offer discounts on tactical apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| AAFES | Expected to start on November 23 | AAFES will offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including groceries, electronics, apparel, and more. |
| Acme Tools | Expected to start on November 23 | Acme Tools is expected to offer discounts on tools, appliances, and more. |
| Academy Sports & Outdoors | November 19 – November 25 | |
| 1-800-Flowers | Expected to start on November 23 | 1-800-Flowers is expected to offer discounts on flowers, plants, and gifts. |
| Ace Hardware | Expected to start on November 23 | Ace Hardware is expected to offer discounts on tools, hardware, and home improvement supplies. |
| Aerie | Expected to start on November 17 | Aerie is expected to offer discounts on lingerie, sleepwear, and activewear. |
| Adidas | Expected to start on November 23 | Adidas is expected to offer discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| Amazon | November 17 – November 27 | Amazon will offer a wide variety of deals on a wide variety of items, including electronics, apparel, toys, home goods, and more. |
| American Eagle Outfitters | Expected to start on November 17 | American Eagle Outfitters is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men and women. |
| Anthropologie | Expected to start on November 24 | Anthropologie is expected to offer discounts on clothing, home décor, and gifts. |
| Apple | November 24 | Apple is expected to offer discounts on AirPods, Apple Watches, iPads, and other devices. |
| Ashley Furniture | Expected to start on November 23 | Ashley Furniture is expected to offer discounts on furniture, mattresses, and home décor. |
| Asos | Expected to start on November 23 | Asos is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women. |
| AutoZone | Expected to start on November 23 | AutoZone is expected to offer discounts on car parts, tools, and accessories. |
| Backcountry | Expected to start on November 23 | Backcountry is expected to offer discounts on outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear. |
| Banana Republic | Expected to start on November 19 | Banana Republic is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women. |
| Barnes & Noble | Expected to start on November 23 | Barnes & Noble is expected to offer discounts on books, toys, and gifts. |
| BareMinerals | Expected to start on November 23 | BareMinerals is expected to offer discounts on makeup, skincare, and brushes. |
| Bass Pro Shops | Expected to start on November 23 | Bass Pro Shops is expected to offer discounts on hunting, fishing, camping, and outdoor gear. |
| Bath & Body Works | November 20 | Bath & Body Works is expected to offer discounts on fragrances, body care products, and home fragrances. |
| Beautyblender | Expected to start on November 23 | Beautyblender is expected to offer discounts on makeup sponges, brushes, and other beauty tools. |
| Bed Bath & Beyond | Expected to start on November 24 | Bed Bath & Beyond is expected to offer discounts on bed and bath linens, kitchenware, and home décor. |
| Belk | Expected to start on November 19 | Belk is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| Best Buy | November 17 – November 25 | Best Buy will offer discounts on TVs, laptops, appliances, and more. |
| Big Lots | November 24 | Big Lots is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including groceries, home goods, and toys. |
| Birchbox | Expected to start on November 23 | Birchbox is expected to offer discounts on beauty and skincare products. |
| Bloomingdale’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Bloomingdale’s is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, cosmetics, and home goods. |
| Bonobos | Expected to start on November 23 | Bonobos is expected to offer discounts on men’s clothing. |
| Brooklinen | Expected to start on November 23 | Brooklinen is expected to offer discounts on bedding, towels, and other home goods. |
| Boohoo | Expected to start on November 23 | Boohoo is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men and women. |
| Bose | Expected to start on November 23 | Bose is expected to offer discounts on speakers, headphones, and soundbars. |
| Build-A-Bear | Expected to start on November 23 | Build-A-Bear is expected to offer discounts on furry friends, accessories, and more. |
| Burlington | Expected to start on November 23 | Burlington is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| Carter’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Carter’s is expected to offer discounts on children’s clothing. |
| Casper | Expected to start on November 23 | Casper is expected to offer discounts on mattresses, pillows, and other sleep products. |
| Charlotte Russe | Expected to start on November 23 | Charlotte Russe is expected to offer discounts on clothing for women. |
| Chegg | Expected to start on November 23 | Chegg is expected to offer discounts on textbooks, study materials, and technology rentals. |
| Chewy | Expected to start on November 23 | Chewy is expected to offer discounts on pet food, supplies, and accessories. |
| Children’s Place | Expected to start on November 23 | Children’s Place is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories for babies, toddlers, and kids. |
| Claire’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Claire’s is expected to offer discounts on jewelry, accessories, and beauty products. |
| Coach Outlet | Expected to start on November 23 | Coach Outlet is expected to offer discounts on handbags, wallets, and accessories. |
| Costco | November 23 | Costco will offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including groceries, electronics, apparel, and more. |
| CVS | November 19 – November 27 | CVS is expected to offer discounts on health and beauty products, groceries, and household items. |
| Dell | Expected to start on November 17 | Dell is expected to offer discounts on laptops, desktops, and computer accessories. |
| Destination Maternity | Expected to start on November 23 | Destination Maternity is expected to offer discounts on maternity apparel. |
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | Expected to start on November 23 | Dick’s Sporting Goods is expected to offer discounts on sporting equipment, apparel, and footwear. |
| Dillard’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Dillard’s is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| DKNY | Expected to start on November 23 | DKNY is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories. |
| Dolls Kill | Expected to start on November 23 | Dolls Kill is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories. |
| DS | Expected to start on November 24 | DS is expected to offer discounts on shoes, bags, and accessories. |
| Dyson | Expected to start on November 23 | Dyson is expected to offer discounts on vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, and hair dryers. |
| eBay | Expected to start on November 23 | eBay will offer a wide variety of deals on a wide variety of items, including electronics, apparel, collectibles, and more. |
| Electronics For Less | November 23 | Electronics For Less is expected to offer discounts on TVs, laptops, appliances, and more. |
| Etsy | Expected to start on November 23 | Etsy is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of handmade and vintage items. |
| Express | November 17 – November 26 | Express will offer discounts on clothing for men and women. |
| Fanatics | Expected to start on November 23 | Fanatics is expected to offer discounts on sports apparel, jerseys, and memorabilia. |
| Francesca’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Francesca’s is expected to offer discounts on clothing, jewelry, and accessories for women. |
| Foot Locker | Expected to start on November 23 | Foot Locker is expected to offer discounts on sneakers, apparel, and accessories. |
| Forever 21 | Expected to start on November 23 | Forever 21 is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| Gap | Expected to start on November 23 | Gap is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| GapKids | Expected to start on November 23 | GapKids is expected to offer discounts on clothing for kids. |
| GameStop | Expected to start on November 24 | GameStop is expected to offer discounts on video games, consoles, and accessories. |
| Guitar Center | Expected to start on November 24 | Guitar Center is expected to offer discounts on guitars, amps, and other music gear. |
| Gymshark | Expected to start on November 23 | Gymshark is expected to offer discounts on activewear for men and women. |
| H&M | Expected to start on November 23 | H&M is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| Hanes | Expected to start on November 23 | Hanes is expected to offer discounts on underwear, socks, and other apparel. |
| HelloFresh | Expected to start on November 23 | HelloFresh is expected to offer discounts on meal kits. |
| Hobby Lobby | November 19 – November 27 | |
| Home Depot | November 23 | Home Depot will offer discounts on tools, appliances, lumber, and more. |
| HomeGoods | Expected to start on November 23 | HomeGoods is expected to offer discounts on home décor, furniture, and kitchenware. |
| HSN | Expected to start on November 23 | HSN is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including electronics, apparel, home goods, and beauty products. |
| Intermix | Expected to start on November 23 | Intermix is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women. |
| J.Crew | Expected to start on November 23 | J.Crew is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| JCPenney | November 24 | JCPenney is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| JOANN Fabrics | November 19 – November 27 | JOANN Fabrics is expected to offer discounts on fabric, sewing supplies, and notions. |
| Kate Spade | Expected to start on November 23 | Kate Spade is expected to offer discounts on handbags, wallets, and jewelry. |
| Kendra Scott | Expected to start on November 23 | Kendra Scott is expected to offer discounts on jewelry. |
| KitchenAid | Expected to start on November 23 | KitchenAid is expected to offer discounts on stand mixers, blenders, and other kitchen appliances. |
| Kohl’s | November 19 – November 25 | Kohl’s will offer discounts on clothing, shoes, home goods, and more. |
| Lane Bryant | Expected to start on November 23 | Lane Bryant is expected to offer discounts on clothing for women. |
| Levi’s | Expected to start on November 23 | Levi’s is expected to offer discounts on jeans, apparel, and accessories. |
| Lenovo | Expected to start on November 23 | Lenovo is expected to offer discounts on laptops, desktops, and tablets. |
| Loft | Expected to start on November 23 | Loft is expected to offer discounts on clothing for women. |
| Lowe’s | November 23 | Lowe’s is expected to offer discounts on tools, appliances, lumber, and more. |
| Lucky Brand | Expected to start on November 23 | Lucky Brand is expected to offer discounts on jeans, apparel, and accessories. |
| Lululemon | Expected to start on November 23 | Lululemon is expected to offer discounts on activewear for men and women. |
| Macy’s | November 19 – November 26 | Macy’s will offer discounts on clothing, shoes, cosmetics, and more. |
| Marshalls | Expected to start on November 23 | Marshalls is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| Michael Kors | Expected to start on November 23 | Michael Kors is expected to offer discounts on handbags, wallets, and jewelry. |
| Michaels | November 22 | Michaels is expected to offer discounts on craft supplies, framing, and more. |
| Micro Center | Expected to start on November 17 | Micro Center is expected to offer discounts on computers, electronics, and gaming gear. |
| Newegg | November 17 – November 25 | Newegg is expected to offer discounts on computer hardware, software, and components. |
| Nike | Expected to start on November 23 | Nike is expected to offer discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| Nordstrom | Expected to start on November 23 | Nordstrom is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and cosmetics. |
| Nordstrom Rack | Expected to start on November 23 | Nordstrom Rack is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and beauty products. |
| Office Depot/OfficeMax | Expected to start on November 23 | Office Depot/OfficeMax is expected to offer discounts on office supplies, furniture, and technology. |
| Old Navy | November 23 | Old Navy is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| Overstock | Expected to start on November 23 | Overstock is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of overstocked items, including furniture, home décor, and bedding. |
| Pandora | Expected to start on November 23 | Pandora is expected to offer discounts on charms, bracelets, and necklaces. |
| Peloton | Expected to start on November 23 | Peloton is expected to offer discounts on exercise bikes and treadmills. |
| Poshmark | Expected to start on November 23 | Poshmark is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories. |
| Pottery Barn | Expected to start on November 23 | Pottery Barn is expected to offer discounts on furniture, home décor, and bedding. |
| Puma | Expected to start on November 23 | Puma is expected to offer discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| QVC | Expected to start on November 23 | QVC is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including electronics, apparel, home goods, and beauty products. |
| Reebok | Expected to start on November 23 | Reebok is expected to offer discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| Saks Fifth Avenue | Expected to start on November 23 | Saks Fifth Avenue is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and cosmetics. |
| Sam’s Club | November 23 | Sam’s Club is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including groceries, electronics, apparel, and more. |
| Samsung | Expected to start on November 23 | Samsung is expected to offer discounts on smartphones, tablets, and appliances. |
| Sephora | November 24 – November 27 | Sephora is expected to offer discounts on makeup, skincare, and fragrance. |
| Sony | Expected to start on November 23 | Sony is expected to offer discounts on TVs, headphones, and cameras. |
| Target | November 17 – November 25 | Target will offer discounts on electronics, apparel, toys, home goods, and more. |
| T.J. Maxx | Expected to start on November 23 | T.J. Maxx is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| The North Face | Expected to start on November 23 | The North Face is expected to offer discounts on outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear. |
| The RealReal | Expected to start on November 23 | The RealReal is expected to offer discounts on a wide variety of luxury consignment items, including clothing, handbags, jewelry, and watches. |
| Tory Burch | Expected to start on November 23 | Tory Burch is expected to offer discounts on handbags, wallets, and shoes. |
| Ulta Beauty | November 19 – November 27 | Ulta Beauty is expected to offer discounts on makeup, skincare, and fragrance. |
| Under Armour | Expected to start on November 23 | Under Armour is expected to offer discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. |
| Urban Outfitters | Expected to start on November 23 | Urban Outfitters is expected to offer discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. |
| Vans | Expected to start on November 23 | Vans is expected to offer discounts on sneakers, apparel, and accessories. |
| Versace | Expected to start on November 23 | Versace is expected to offer discounts on luxury clothing, shoes, and accessories. |
| Victoria’s Secret | November 22 | Victoria’s Secret is expected to offer discounts on lingerie, sleepwear, and beauty products. |
| Vineyard Vines | Expected to start on November 23 | Vineyard Vines is expected to offer discounts on clothing for men, women, and children. |
| Walgreens | November 19 – November 27 | Walgreens is expected to offer discounts on health and beauty products, groceries, and household items. |
| Walmart | November 22 – November 27 | Walmart will offer discounts on a wide variety of items, including groceries, electronics, apparel, home goods, and more. |
| Wayfair | Expected to start on November 23 | Wayfair is expected to offer discounts on furniture, home décor, and rugs. |
| Williams-Sonoma | Expected to start on November 23 | Williams-Sonoma is expected to offer discounts on cookware, cutlery, and kitchen appliances. |
| Wilsons Leather | Expected to start on November 23 | Wilsons Leather is expected to offer discounts on jackets, bags, and accessories. |
| World Market | Expected to start on November 23 | World Market is expected to offer discounts on home décor, furniture, and food and beverages. |
| Yeti | Expected to start on November 23 | Yeti is expected to offer discounts on coolers, drinkware, and outdoor gear. |
| Zappos | Expected to start on November 23 | Zappos is expected to offer discounts on shoes, boots, and apparel. |
What to Skip (For Now)
Toys and Holiday Decor
While toys and holiday decorations are a staple of the holiday season, it may be wise to hold off on purchasing them during the main Black Friday event. Prices on kids’ toys and holiday decorations tend to drop as December progresses. Retailers often scramble to clear inventory and make space for new items closer to Christmas. By waiting a few weeks, you can potentially find even better prices on these items.
Sporting Goods
If you’re in the market for sporting goods, it’s best to wait until closer to Christmas. Historically, the first week of December offers the best pricing for sports-related items as older inventory clears out and new equipment becomes available. So if you’re looking to gear up for sports, mark December 4 on your calendar as the best day to find great deals.
Tools and Home Improvement Items
While many product categories see significant discounts on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, tools and home improvement items tend to lag behind. According to Adobe Digital Insights, the best pricing for these items typically occurs in the first week of December as retailers clear out older inventory. It’s a good idea to double-check the price history and consider using coupon-finding browser extensions or price-tracking websites before making a purchase. Alternatively, you can consider buying tools around Father’s Day in June.
Holiday Shopping Tips
Compare Prices and Do Your Research
Before making any purchases, it’s crucial to compare prices and do your research. While Black Friday offers great deals, not all discounts are created equal. By scoping out prices beforehand and reading product reviews, you can ensure that you’re making wise purchases and not just falling for flashy discounts. This is particularly important for big-ticket items like TVs and appliances, as they are long-term investments.
Read the Fine Print for “Buy Now, Pay Later” Options
Many shoppers rely on credit for their holiday purchases, and “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) options have gained popularity. These options allow you to spread out your payments over time, similar to layaway. However, it’s crucial to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions before signing up. Late payments can result in additional fees, which may negate any discounts you received. If you’re already carrying credit card debt, consider using cash or debit instead to avoid further financial strain.
Stay Mindful of Your Finances
The holiday season can bring pressure to overspend and keep up with societal expectations. It’s essential to stay mindful of your own financial situation and set realistic expectations for your holiday shopping. Avoid going into debt or spending beyond your means in an attempt to make others happy. Remember, the thought and meaning behind a gift are more important than its price tag.
Conclusion
Black Friday 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting shopping event with a plethora of deals across various categories. From TVs and tech to kitchen appliances and winter apparel, there are plenty of opportunities to save money and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. By staying informed, doing your research, and keeping your finances in check, you can make the most of this Black Friday season. So get ready to shop smart and enjoy the thrill of finding amazing deals during this holiday shopping extravaganza.