For many, Black Friday signals the official start of the holiday shopping season. Crowds flock to stores, online deals flood our inboxes, and the countdown to Christmas is officially on. For others, it’s a chaotic, wallet-draining day best avoided. But have you ever wondered how the day got its somewhat unusual name? Let’s dive into the story behind Black Friday.

What’s in a Name?

Black Friday may conjure visions of festive smells, holiday music, and the joy of gift-giving—but why “black”? After all, the word “black” is often associated with something ominous, like Black Tuesday, the stock market crash of 1929 that helped usher in the Great Depression.
The origins of Black Friday’s name have both historical and business roots, each contributing to the story of one of America’s busiest shopping days.

Black Friday in History

The tradition of shopping the day after Thanksgiving dates back decades, especially in large cities. Historians trace the term Black Friday to the 1960s in Philadelphia. Police officers and bus drivers, struggling to manage the overwhelming crowds and traffic jams, reportedly coined the term to describe the hectic day.
While the name stuck, retailers weren’t thrilled with its negative connotation.

Black Friday in Business

By the 1980s, retailers had reshaped the meaning of Black Friday into something far more positive. They promoted it as the day when stores finally “went into the black”, meaning they became profitable for the year.
Why “black”? Traditionally, accountants used red ink to mark losses and black ink to indicate profit. Over time, Black Friday has become synonymous with sales, profitability, and opportunity—transforming what started as chaos in the streets into a celebrated holiday shopping event.

The Gift of Homeownership for the Holidays

If you’re planning to brave the crowds or hunt for the best online deals this Black Friday, we salute your dedication! But here’s another way to celebrate the season: invest in a home for yourself or your family.

With Tidewater Mortgage Services Inc., you can apply online from the comfort of your couch—no lines, no crowds, no early-morning alarms. In just a few minutes, you could be pre-qualified, making the dream of homeownership a reality well before the new year.
After all, some of the best deals aren’t found in stores—they’re found in your future home.

Apply today and make this holiday season unforgettable!