Sun Nov 02 10:50:00 UTC 2025: Holiday Shopping Season Kicks Off Early with Black Friday Sneak Peeks
Cincinnati, OH – Halloween is barely over, but major retailers are already gearing up for the holiday shopping season, with some even launching sales earlier than usual. Walmart, for example, is teasing its Black Friday weekend event, followed by Cyber Monday deals.
Consumer Reports’ deals editor Samantha Gordon advises shoppers to keep an eye out for pre-Black Friday savings opportunities. “Veterans Day weekend is one of those long holiday weekends where you’ll see some discounts around large appliances and mattresses,” she said. Veterans can also find discounts and freebies at various restaurants and small businesses.
Black Friday itself is expected to offer the biggest discounts, especially on technology and electronics. However, Gordon cautions shoppers to do their research and ensure that “Black Friday deals” are genuinely the best prices. “A lot of the prices you’re going to see are the same prices you’ll see at other times of the year,” she said.
The shopping frenzy continues with Small Business Saturday on November 29, followed by Cyber Monday on December 1. Gordon recommends monitoring prices now and taking advantage of retailers’ price adjustment policies if prices drop after a purchase.
Local shopper Debbie Johnson plans to start her holiday shopping early to combat inflation and tariff-related price increases. “Everything is a little high, so I am hoping to find some deals,” she said.
Consumer advocates emphasize the importance of researching retailer policies and comparing prices to ensure consumers are getting the best value for their money this holiday season.
First Piper 