Did you participate in Black Friday?

First of all, I'm surprised that the retail industry has not come up with a more catchy name for the day after Thanksgiving.  Coming from an investment perspective, Black Friday sounds somewhat ominous.  Much like Black Monday, which generally refers to October 19, 1987, the largest single day percent decline in U.S. stock market history.  The history of the name seems to stem from one of two origins.  One theory is that this is the day that drives retailer's income statements from red to black.  I know this is an important shopping day and begins the holiday shopping season, but I doubt this is true.  The second theory comes from the stress of the heavy traffic and large crowds.

At any rate, the origin of the term is not that important.  This is a day that, from a personal finance perspective, is somewhat conflicted.  I have not gone shopping on "Black Friday" in years.  I am of the understanding that there really are some tremendous deals that can be found.  In that sense, it sounds like anyone interested in personal finance should wish to take advantage of this.  On the other hand, it is another examle of hyper-consummerism allowing the retailers to create another artificial day specifically for people to go shopping.

Needless to say, I avoided the malls this weekend.  Instead, I spent time with family, my Fiancee, and watched plenty of great college football.  If you did participate, or plan to participate in cyber Monday (today), I would like to hear about the deals that you scored, or the crowds you fought.

Happy Shopping!

Comments

[bluntmoney]

I participated this year for the first time ever, and had a lot of fun. Of course, I didn't buy much, but that wasn't really why I went in the first place. I wrote about my experience here.

[Shelly Baur]

I've found that by going to the "arty" areas of town (Pioneer Square in Seattle, Kirkland WA's art galleries) that it's possible to simultaneously shop for the holidays, find unique items, support local businesses, and avoid crowds. In fact, these areas usually have fewer people than normal.

[The Sarcasticynic]

I avoid B.F. because of the parking. Read about my experiences of that here:

http://sardonicynic.blogspot.com/2006/04/no-parking.html

[MBT Shoes]

It's so nice to have you do all of the research for us. It makes our decision making so much easier!! Thanks.