Where Did Black Friday Originate? History & Meaning

Euan James Jewellery | Watches
12/10/2026 5 minute read

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When it comes to holiday shopping, few days are as important as Black Friday. If you plan to find the best bargains available, Black Friday sales should be at the top of your list. Where did Black Friday originate? Well actuality, there is a long history behind the term that has come to represent bargain shopping for just about everyone. Find out all you need to know right here.

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is an American tradition where enthusiastic shoppers wait all year for sales. It is the day after Thanksgiving when ads with amazing discount offers are released, and stores open early to accommodate the massive crowds they expect at their doors. Jump to a section below by clicking the links or read on to find out more.

Where Did Black Friday Originate?

The term was first used on 24 September 1869, when financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk tried to corner the US gold market and triggered a crash. In the 1950s the term once again reared its head, but this time, with a different meaning. Philadelphia police used the term to refer to the day after Thanksgiving when huge crowds of shoppers went into the city and the police had to work long hours to cover the crowds and traffic.

Within a few years, retailers attempted to put a prettier face on the day by officially calling it "Big Friday." Its popularity grew through the 1970s as more retailers extended their hours. By the late 1980s, retailers had reframed the name: it was the day their books went from ‘in the red’ (losses) to ‘in the black’ (profit). The popularity of Black Friday continued to grow throughout the 1970s with more and more retailers extending their hours into Thanksgiving evening.

More recently, Black Friday has become known as more than just a day for shopping; it is now considered an event. Each year on the day after Thanksgiving, thousands of people flock to stores across the world to enjoy amazing sales and fabulous doorbusters.

The Sales Phenomenon

While sales in November were already popular before 'Black Friday' was coined, the sales have only increased in popularity with retailers across the world slashing their prices. According to data from finder.com.au, 71% of Australians plan on shopping this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. In November alone, Australians typically spend over $3.9 billion on retail shopping, and this year will be no different.

Despite Black Friday originating in the US, America is no longer the top spot for Black Friday shopping. Online shopping keeps growing every year, and Black Friday is now one of the biggest online shopping days in Australia.

When Is Black Friday This Year?

This year, Black Friday falls on Friday 27 November 2026, followed by Cyber Monday on 30 November. A lot of brands have already started promoting their Black Friday deals or have created an early access campaign. Here at Grahams, we have a large range of Black Friday jewellery and Black Friday watches on sale.

In terms of in store shopping, while merchants have traditionally opened for business at 6 am, in recent years many have pushed opening times earlier, some even open at midnight or trade overnight. Keep an eye out for Grahams' extended Christmas trading hours.

Our Favourite Black Friday Deals

Here at Grahams, we have a huge range of discounted jewellery and watches for everyone. Check out some of our top picks below and take advantage of our bargains this Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Black Friday is the perfect time to save on bigger purchases. Planning a Christmas proposal? A trilogy engagement ring, with three diamonds for your past, present and future, makes a meaningful choice, and this 2 carat lab-grown design is now a third of its original price.

Luminesce Lab Grown Sterling Silver 2 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring

$999.00 ~~$2,999.00~~

Luminesce Lab Grown Sterling Silver 2 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring… read more

10ct Yellow Gold 0.45 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring with 3 Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds

$799.00

10ct Yellow Gold 0.45 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring with 3 Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds… read more

14ct White Gold 1.5 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring with 3 Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds

$1,212.00

14ct White Gold 1.5 Carat Diamond Trilogy Ring with 3 Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds … read more

If men's jewellery is more your thing, be sure to check out this gold chain. Whether you're planning a day at the office or going out on the town, you can be sure that this chain will look just right.

Stainless-Steel Gold-Plated Figaro 1:3 Fancy 60cm Chain

$159.00

Stainless-Steel Gold-Plated Figaro 1:3 Fancy 60cm Chain… read more

9ct Yellow Gold 22 Gauge Curb 41cm Chain

$299.00

9ct Yellow Gold 22 Gauge Curb 41cm Chain… read more

Stainless Steel Gold Polished Curb 60cm Chain

$199.00

Stainless Steel Gold Polished Curb 60cm Chain… read more

Shopping for women's jewellery? You simply can't go wrong with this 0.45 carat diamond bracelet. Diamonds are more than just a girl's best friend; they're the foundation of every jewellery collection.

0.45 Carat Diamond 18cm Bracelet set in Sterling Silver

$199.00 ~~$699.00~~

0.45 Carat Diamond 18cm Bracelet set in Sterling Silver… read more

1/2 Carat Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamonds in Sterling Silver

$249.00 ~~$899.00~~

1/2 Carat Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamonds in Sterling Silver… read more

Diamond Tennis Bracelet in Gold Plated Silver

$199.00 ~~$599.00~~

Diamond Tennis Bracelet in Gold Plated Silver… read more

If you're more interested in jewellery sets, we have options for you. A perfect gift to celebrate an anniversary or to show off your devotion, this freshwater white pearl jewellery set offers a necklace, earrings and a bracelet.

White Freshwater Pearl Bracelet, Necklace & Earring Set with Sterling Silver Clasp

$199.00 ~~$599.00~~

White Freshwater Pearl Bracelet, Necklace & Earring Set with Sterling Silver Clasp… read more