Far from the “Black Friday” anti-corruption protest held on 13 September, the November Black Friday is an annual shopping event where stores expect crowds, and “black” is associated with profitability.

Yet, just like Filipinos’ use of the term in September, Black Friday in the 1960s Philadelphia originally had a negative connotation, referring to the chaos and overcrowding caused by shoppers flocking to stores after Thanksgiving. By the 1980s, however, the shopping frenzy was rebranded into what we know today—a positive energy surrounding businesses and shoppers eager to take advantage of Black Friday deals as the holiday season approaches.

Practically crazy

Even before 11.11 or 12.12 sales, Black Friday was widely anticipated in the United States and soon adopted by other countries, including the Philippines. Here, Christmas is not just a single day, but a season of festive songs, lighting ceremonies, family reunions, and, of course, gift-giving.

Filipinos’ holiday experience is often filled with aguinaldos from ninongs and ninangs. But managing the budget for noche buena, media noche, decorations, gifts for inaanak, family, and friends can be challenging. Instead of borrowing to maintain the holiday grandeur, wise Filipino “budgetarians” choose to maximize sales like Black Friday to make the season more manageable.

Usual Black Friday deals include:

• Electronics: Smartphones, headphones, gaming gear, smart home devices, and kitchen appliances perfect for Gen Z, millennials, and moms.

• Fashion: Affordable clothing for men, women, and kids; quality footwear; bags; and seasonal outfits for girls who like to dress up.

• Home & Lifestyle: Furniture and home decor, ideal for holiday home renovations. Definitely a hit with titas!

• Beauty: Skincare, cosmetics, and salon services like hair rebonding or coloring, perfect for K-drama fans and those looking for a year-end makeover.

• Travel: Airlines and hotel accommodations often offer special fares, perfect for staycations or family bonding during the holidays.

Black Friday deals are offered both online and in-store, including at malls like SM Supermalls. What makes Black Friday truly “crazy” is that it uplifts a positive vibe—not through extravagance, but through practicality and the sense of giving it inspires.