Black Friday as the phrase alone sparks images of long lines, massive sales, and adrenaline-pumping deals. Traditionally a U.S. phenomenon, Black Friday has become a major shopping event in Canada, gaining momentum every year. In 2025, Black Friday falls on November 28th, and retailers and consumers alike are gearing up for one of the biggest shopping events of the year.

We’ll explore the origins of Black Friday in Canada, how it differs from the U.S., top trends, predictions for 2025, shopping tips, and a look at the impact on retailers, e-commerce, and Canadian culture.

---

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday originated in the United States as a post-Thanksgiving shopping event marking the beginning of the holiday season. Retailers offer substantial discounts on everything from electronics to clothing, and shoppers flock to stores and now online to snag the best deals

The name Black Friday is said to have originated in Philadelphia, where police used it to describe the chaos that followed Thanksgiving as tourists and shoppers flooded the city. Retailers later rebranded the term to signify the point at which stores go into the black or become profitable

---

Black Friday in Canada

While Boxing Day was once the premier shopping day in Canada, Black Friday has quickly taken the lead. In the past decade, Canadian retailers began offering Black Friday deals to keep shoppers from crossing the border to shop in the U.S.

Why Canadians Embrace Black Friday;

Cross-Border Influence
Many Canadians used to travel to the U.S. for Black Friday deals prompting local retailers to respond with their own promotions

Holiday Timing
Black Friday arrives about a month before Christmas giving shoppers ample time to prepare for the holidays

E-commerce Growth
Online shopping has made it easier than ever for Canadians to participate in Black Friday without leaving home

Boxing Day Shift
Once the biggest shopping day in Canada Boxing Day has lost some steam as Black Friday takes center stage

---

Black Friday 2025

This year Black Friday falls on November 28 2025 and it promises to be bigger and more tech-savvy than ever before. Retailers are expected to begin offering Black Friday Week deals as early as Monday November 24 and some promotions may run through Cyber Monday on December 1

Trends Predicted for 2025

Some trends you should expect this black friday includes;

AI-Powered Shopping Experiences
Expect smart recommendation engines and virtual try-ons to dominate online platforms

Sustainable Shopping Options
More retailers will highlight eco-friendly and locally-sourced products

Early Access for VIPs
Loyalty members may receive exclusive early-bird deals or special online access

Livestream Shopping
Real-time product demos via social media will gain traction

Cross-Border Offers
US and Canadian retailers will target each other’s markets more aggressively than ever

---

Top Canadian Retailers for Black Friday Deals

If you are looking for where to shop, below are some of the best Canadian stores to check out this Black Friday with their direct official links;

Electronics & Tech
Best Buy Canada
The Source
Staples Canada
Apple Canada

Fashion & Apparel
Hudson’s Bay
Simons
Aritzia
Sport Chek

Home & Lifestyle
Canadian Tire
Wayfair Canada
IKEA Canada
Home Depot Canada

Online Marketplaces
Amazon Canada
Walmart Canada
eBay Canada

---

Online vs In-Store Shopping

Black Friday used to be synonymous with early morning lineups and chaotic store aisles but that trend is shifting. In Canada online shopping continues to grow

Benefits of Online Shopping

Shop from the comfort of your home
Access to exclusive online-only deals
No crowds or long waits
Easy price comparison
Extended return policies during the season

In-Store Advantages

Immediate product availability
Physical product inspection
Personal customer service
Store-exclusive doorbusters

Most retailers now offer a hybrid experience allowing customers to browse online reserve items and pick them up in-store

---

Strategies for Canadian Black Friday Shoppers

You should make the most out of Black Friday 2025 with these smart strategies

Before Black Friday

Make a wishlist
Know what you need so you’re not swayed by every deal

Set a budget
It’s easy to overspend in the hype

Sign up for newsletters
Early access deals often go to email subscribers

Download store apps
Many retailers post app-exclusive discounts

On Black Friday

Wake up early
Online deals go live at midnight or 3 AM EST

Use price trackers
Tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel track discounts

Check social media
Many flash sales are announced on Instagram or X formerly Twitter

Be strategic
Focus on big-ticket items first — electronics appliances and fashion go fast

---

Is Cyber Monday Bigger in Canada

Cyber Monday is the Monday after Black Friday. It is a digital shopping event focused on online-only sales. While it’s more significant in the US Cyber Monday in Canada has grown steadily

In 2025 Cyber Monday falls on December 1st. Canadian consumers can expect steep discounts on

Laptops and tablets
Gaming consoles and accessories
Software and subscriptions
Fashion and lifestyle products
Small appliances

Cyber Monday is ideal for snagging items that were out of stock or overlooked during Black Friday

---

Canadian Consumer Behavior on Black Friday

Spending Habits
Recent surveys suggest the average Canadian plans to spend between $300 to $600 on Black Friday deals. However many consumers prioritize value and quality over just getting a deal

Most Popular Categories
Electronics especially TVs laptops phones
Fashion and accessories
Toys and children’s products
Kitchen appliances
Fitness equipment

Canadians are increasingly focused on ethical shopping seeking transparency eco-conscious brands and supporting local businesses

---

Black Friday and Small Canadian Businesses

While big-box retailers dominate the Black Friday headlines small and medium-sized Canadian businesses are carving out their share of the market

How They Compete

Unique handcrafted items
Better customer service
Local and ethical sourcing
Loyalty programs and rewards

Some small businesses even choose to sit out Black Friday altogether instead participating in Buy Local Friday or offering year-round fair pricing models

---

Potential Downsides of Black Friday

While Black Friday brings excitement there are concerns to consider

Consumer Debt
The pressure to spend during sales often leads to overspending and credit card debt

Environmental Impact
Mass production shipping and returns contribute to waste and emissions

Psychological Triggers
Limited-time deals and FOMO fear of missing out can encourage unnecessary purchases

Consumers should practice mindful shopping — buy only what you need and support businesses that align with your values

---

The Growth of Black Friday in Canada

Black Friday is evolving fast and this is what the future may hold

AI Shopping Assistants
Personalized AI bots could help customers find the best deals instantly

Virtual Reality Stores
Shoppers may soon browse immersive 3D storefronts from home

Subscription Deals
More services may join the Black Friday bandwagon — Netflix Spotify meal kits and more

Crypto & BNPL Buy Now Pay Later
New payment models will influence buyer decisions

As the retail landscape becomes more digital and globalized Canadian consumers will have more choices than ever before — but also more responsibility to shop wisely

---

Conclusion

Black Friday in Canada is no longer just a borrowed tradition — it’s a retail powerhouse in its own right. With major deals tech innovations and a strong e-commerce culture 2025’s Black Friday promises to be unforgettable

Whether you’re a die-hard deal hunter or a casual shopper looking for early holiday savings Black Friday is a chance to get more for less if you plan ahead and shop smart

So mark your calendar for November 28 2025 and get ready for a shopping experience that could save you big support your favorite brands and jumpstart your holiday season the Canadian way

---