An early start to Black Friday could affect locals’ Thanksgiving traditions this year.
Walmart announced Tuesday that the chain will begin Black Friday specials at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving at all locations, according to a news release. The chain follows a trend in retail as more stores opt to offer deals earlier on Thanksgiving Day.
Taylor Chambers, a 21-year-old UF health education and behavior senior, agreed that the longer Black Friday period cuts into traditions.
“It takes away from the spirit and celebration that Thanksgiving is,” he said.
This change risks taking loved ones away from their families to work new hours, Chambers said.
Devin McDaniel, a 20-year-old UF marketing junior, is an avid Black Friday shopper, but the earlier start doesn’t excite her.
“I was upset because my family usually has dinner around 5:30,” McDaniel said, “so this cuts into my family time.”
She said the start time could shape a more materialistic society.
Khadijah Warnke, an employee at the Oaks Mall, said staff was told her store may open sometime Thanksgiving evening, “which stinks because people are still eating with their family and enjoying meals,” she said.
“I don’t understand what the big deal is,” she said. “People already have 24 hours to go shopping.”
A version of this story ran on page 4 on 11/14/2013 under the headline "Black Friday sales starting night of Thanksgiving"
