Quick answer: Black Friday 2026 is Friday, November 27. Most U.S. shoppers can also find earlier sale windows in November, including events from Walmart, Target and Best Buy.
When does Black Friday 2026 start?
Black Friday is the Friday after U.S. Thanksgiving, which makes the official 2026 date November 27. But it is not necessary to wait until that Friday to compare offers. Several retailers have published early-event schedules. Use those dates to plan your research without assuming each advertised item is a genuine bargain.
2026 retailer Black Friday dates
| Store | 2026 sale timing | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| Target | November 5–7 | Early Black Friday offers; additional seasonal offers later |
| Best Buy | November 6; November 19 | Early deals begin Nov 6; main 10-day event begins Nov 19 |
| Walmart | November 12–15; 23–29 | Main online event starts Nov 23 at 12:01 a.m. ET |
| Amazon | Early holiday deals available | Main U.S. Black Friday event schedule not fully specified as of Nov 5 |
| Cyber Monday | November 30 | Walmart online event continues through Dec 2 |
Three things to do before a sale
- Record real prices now. Save the exact model number and the usual recent selling price of products you want.
- Check total cost. Include shipping, return fees and any required membership or service plan.
- Set a target price. Decide what a good purchase would cost before promotional banners and countdown clocks arrive.
Should you shop early?
It can be sensible to buy early if a trusted retailer offers a strong verified price, suitable return terms and available stock. Waiting until November 27 may improve some prices but can also mean missing a particular configuration. For electronics, compare equivalent models and check how their price histories have changed.
Shopping for a TV?
Read our checklist for refresh rates, OLED and mini-LED screens, screen size and warranties.
Shopping for a laptop?
Use the under-$500 buying checklist to avoid weak memory, tiny storage and misleading discounts.
Shopping on Amazon.com? Visit our Amazon Black Friday shopping picks to compare submitted product links and learn what to check before placing an order.
Is Black Friday better than Cyber Monday?
Not necessarily. Cyber Monday follows on November 30, and prices differ by item and retailer. Rather than trying to predict a winner, decide what you want and track the same model through both dates. Our Black Friday vs Cyber Monday comparison explains the tradeoffs.
Official sources and safety guidance
- Walmart official event schedule
- Best Buy holiday calendar
- Target holiday FAQ
- Amazon Black Friday guide
Schedules checked November 5, 2026. Retailers may change prices, stock and offer conditions.