American shoppers are preparing for one of the biggest retail events of the year as Black Friday 2025 approaches on Friday, November 28. This annual shopping extravaganza promises massive discounts across electronics, fashion, toys, and home goods, making strategic planning essential for bargain hunters.
Key Shopping Dates for 2025 Holiday Season
The holiday shopping calendar features three major events that consumers should mark on their calendars. Black Friday falls on November 28, 2025, followed by Small Business Saturday on November 29. The digital shopping phenomenon Cyber Monday arrives on December 1, completing the weekend shopping marathon.
Major Retailer Opening Hours for Black Friday 2025
While most major stores will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow employees time with family, they're opening exceptionally early on Black Friday to accommodate the shopping frenzy.
Popular retail chains have announced their opening times:
Target will welcome shoppers at 6 a.m., though closing times may vary depending on location. Walmart follows the same pattern, opening at 6 a.m. local time across its stores.
Electronics giant Best Buy will operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., while Apple Store hours will differ by location - customers should verify timings through Apple's store locator tool.
Department stores are competing for early birds with Kohl's and JCPenney both opening at 5 a.m. local time. Home improvement retailers Lowe's and Home Depot will open at 6 a.m., with Home Depot maintaining regular operating hours at most locations.
Specialty Store Schedules and Shopping Strategies
Discount retailers TJ Maxx, Marshall's, and HomeGoods will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., while Burlington extends hours until midnight. IKEA maintains regular operating hours, requiring shoppers to check their local store specifics.
For pet owners, PetSmart will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Petco locations may vary with some stores opening at 8 a.m. Tractor Supply Co. caters to rural needs with hours from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Expert shopping tips include verifying local store hours since timing can differ by location, planning transportation for stores with early openings, considering online alternatives to avoid crowded stores, and confirming closure information in advance.
The strategic shopper can maximize savings by researching deals beforehand and creating a prioritized shopping list. With proper planning, Black Friday 2025 presents significant opportunities for holiday gift purchasing while staying within budget.
