Back in black

Black Friday deals you don’t want to miss 

Photo by Peyton Sims

Two Black Friday shoppers rampage through an aisle at Target. This year, if the customers are not shopping from home, they’re expected to wear masks upon entry.

Story by Peyton Sims and Mikayla Zverina

It’s that time of year again. Stampedes of people wait outside armed with coupons. After hours of waiting, the doors are opened, and they storm in after deals they believe are worth fighting for. Whether or not you’re an avid Black Friday shopper is out of the question. If you want to avoid the possibility of breaking limbs in a feral crowd while also not risking coronavirus, there’s just as many online steals that you won’t want to miss. 

This year, businesses are doing whatever they can to ensure their retail workers and customers are safe. In a majority of stores, everyone who enters is required to wear a face mask. For those who prefer to avoid larger crowds in these times can shop the same deals as everyone else whether it be through a curbside pickup service or from the comfort of one’s home. 

Target 

Ah, yes. The beloved Target obviously has to be first on the list. Its online deals are live and they won’t last for long. Items from each department are discounted ranging from 30% to 50% off. If you’re looking to snag some Airpods or a half-off computer, check their site while the supply lasts. 

Ulta 

The easiest place to blow all your cash is allowing both online and in-store shopping with, of course, certain precautions. They have some amazing deals on people’s favorites such as 40% off Kylie Cosmetics and 50% off Urban Decay’s Naked Eyeshadow Palettes. If you’re in need of some great makeup products for a great price, now’s your chance. 

Walmart

This year, Walmart’s unbeatable deals can be fought for either online or in-store.  If you’re scavenging for the perfect holiday gifts, you won’t want to miss their variety of sales. Walmart has discounted gifts for absolutely anyone whether they be from the toy department or the outdoors section. Also, if you plan to wait in the cold hours before the doors open, be prepared to socially distance and wear a mask.

Best Buy 

The best electronic sales are here but they won’t last forever. If you’re a photographer who wants to save $300 on Sony’s Alpha a7 lll Mirrorless Camera or if you’d rather save $200 on a new television, Best Buy has just what you need. Unlike other stores, Best Buy is extending their deals to Saturday where special officers will be up for grabs at a first-come-first-serve basis. 

Bath & Body Works 

At Bath & Body Works, the sale everyone loves is finally back for not only Black Friday, but the entire week. They have a buy three get three free on the entire store and online. Customers are allowed to shop in-store or online Friday, as certain precautions are being taken to allow for a semi-normal Black Friday experience. On top of that, they have a special Christmas box available to those who spend over $30 that can be purchased, and it includes nine “Santa-approved” products. 

GameStop 

With everyone racing to get their hands on the new PS5 or Xbox Series X, GameStop is a must. While they do offer online purchases for the beloved Black Friday, the only way to get your hands on the elusive consoles previously mentioned is to shop in-store. While this may cause massively long lines during the time when it is looked down upon, they are taking precautions to keep their customers and workers safe. They are offering up to 50% off on many games along with many other deals that are worth checking out. 

Old Navy

Old Navy has elongated their Black Friday deals, including 50% off the entire store, in hopes of spreading out the loyal Black Friday shoppers and to follow COVID-19 guidelines. They are allowing people to shop online and in-stores on Friday so everyone can appreciate these amazing deals from either the comfort of their home or on the front line with their masks on. 

With the entry of a new holiday season comes an array of tempting sales. As people prepare to take on the intimidating crowds or surf the internet from home, it’s bound that good deals will find their way into everyone’s cart. To the people that plan to fight for the bargains in person: remember to wear a mask — and happy shopping!