If you are planning your holiday shopping strategy, you need to know exactly when Black Friday 2026 officially begins. Because Thanksgiving shifts every single year, the biggest shopping day of the year shifts right along with it.
Whether you are looking for massive discounts on a new TV or just want to know if you have to go to work, here is your ultimate guide to the Black Friday 2026 schedule, retail hours, and banking closures.
When is Black Friday 2026?
This year, Black Friday falls on Friday, November 27, 2026. > As always, this massive retail event takes place on the day immediately following Thanksgiving. For decades, it has marked the unofficial beginning of the Christmas shopping season in the United States. In fact, the term “Black Friday” originated in Philadelphia in the 1960s to describe the heavy, disruptive pedestrian and vehicle traffic that would occur the day after Thanksgiving (you can read more about its fascinating history on Wikipedia).
Is Black Friday 2026 a Federal Holiday?
Despite millions of Americans taking the day off to shop, Black Friday is NOT a federal holiday.
Because it is not a federally recognized holiday, here is what you need to expect regarding closures:
- Banks: Most major banks, including Chase and Bank of America, are open on November 27th.
- Mail: The USPS will deliver mail normally, and post offices will be open.
- Schools: The vast majority of public schools and universities are closed, as they give students a four-day weekend for the Thanksgiving break.
- Stock Market: The U.S. Stock Market (NYSE and Nasdaq) traditionally closes early at 1:00 PM EST on the day after Thanksgiving.
What Time Do Stores Open on Black Friday 2026?
In recent years, the trend of stores opening at midnight on Thanksgiving has completely changed. Most major retailers now stay closed on Thanksgiving Day and open their doors early on Friday morning instead.
While specific local hours will be announced closer to November, you can expect the following based on recent retail trends:
- Walmart: Doors typically open at 6:00 AM on Friday.
- Target: Usually opens at 6:00 AM on Friday.
- Best Buy: Famous for early tech deals, they generally open at 5:00 AM.
- Home Depot & Lowe’s: Usually open at 6:00 AM for tool and appliance sales.
Pro Tip: Many of these retailers launch their “Black Friday 2026” deals online the Monday before Thanksgiving. You don’t always have to wait in line to get the best price!
Plan the Rest of Your Holiday Season
Once the November shopping rush is over, it is a straight sprint to Christmas and the end of the year!
If you are trying to figure out when your kids get out of school or when your bank will be closed in December, make sure to bookmark our complete guide to the [Christmas 2026 Schedule].