Opinion: Extending the Hours of Black Friday into Thanksgiving

Christmas shoppers in the Bullring by Mark Hillary

A recent article about the trend to move Black Friday into Thanksgiving day has been a topic of discussion by many on Facebook.

Honestly, like the opinion in the article, I believe that the problem is not capitalism or greedy corporations but the materialistic mindset is a disturbing picture of our culture and the desire for 'things' over family, reflection and relaxation.

Now, there have always been a few places that stay open. It is a very, very busy day for restaurants like Cracker Barrel. A number of grocery stores staying open, at least part of the day, for those last minute items for the feast. Gas stations sometimes stay open to serve the few that are on the roads to be with family.

As for actually Christmas shopping, physically bundling up, hopping in the car and heading to the mall? I am hoping that the customers will be scarce. They always have the option to shop online while the turkey is roasting or just waiting until items go on sale later in December (you KNOW they will go on sale later in the month). If the customers don't show up this Thanksgiving, this will be the only year we see this trend.

Personally, most of my shopping is completed and I will spend Thursday with my family. Over the two days, I will decorate for Christmas and hand-make some gifts to share with family and friends. I might do some browsing on Cyber Saturday and Cyber which will much less stressful than the surge in the stores.☺

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