Black Friday is upon us again.

In literal fashion this year, Black Friday starts the day after Thanksgiving. More and more stores and companies are reserving Thanksgiving Day for family and football: the way God intended.

With one day of eating and resting, you still have plenty of time to shop before the holidays.

Walmart will open bright and early at 5 a.m. on Friday, after closing Thanksgiving Day. In typical fashion, Walmart has a slew of deals already available online. The Walmart Black Friday ads are packed with hi-tech deals, including an Apple watch for $109 and Xbox X or Playstation 5 for $500.

Likewise, Tractor Supply’s Black Friday deals began Tuesday. Closing for Thanksgiving, the farm supply store will reopen at 6 a.m. on Friday. Folks can save up to $30 on Carhart apparel, $300 on select gun safes and 30 percent off dog crates.

Although many stores are closing down for Thanksgiving, Dollar General will be open today through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. It will offer “buy one get one 75-percent off” all toys, and you can save 70 percent off all apparel.

Burke’s Outlet in Columbus will open at 7 a.m. on Friday, where you can find cookware sets for $40, luggage for $20 and various pet items at slashed prices.

For all you crafters out there, Michaels is offering 10-percent off your entire purchase on Friday. You’ll also find discounted pre-lit Christmas Trees on sale up to $200 off regular price. If the cold weather keeps you in, you’ll definitely find a craft to keep you company at Michael’s.

Personally, I think there’s no better way to end a gluttonous holiday than with a game of backyard baseball or football. For my other sports enthusiasts, Academy Sports and Outdoors will open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday. You’ll find 50-percent off game tables, 20-percent off fishing combinations, and 50-percent off all Magellan clothing, hunting boots and slippers.

When you’re browsing for Christmas gifts for family and friends, keep in mind shopping locally. The Dispatch’s Shopping Guide can point you in the right direction for gifts of all sizes, ranging from stocking stuffers to gifts under the tree.

You can flip through the shopping guide to find the perfect Big Green Egg at Adventure ATV in West Point, Nativity and cheese platters at the Purple Elephant in Columbus, some sweet Mississippi State clothes at The Lodge in Starkville, plant stands at Busy Bee in Macon and so much more.

Speaking of gifts and wanting to give back, Main Street Director Barbara Bigelow is asking those shopping around to remember the small town businesses this weekend for Small Business Saturday.
“Please remember to shop local this year,” Bigelow said. “Not only does it keep your neighbors in business, it keeps your tax dollars in the community. It stimulates our local economy, it’s convenient and it’s smart. And, there are no delivery fees.”

In Columbus from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. local retailers will offer plenty of specials and help you find the perfect gift for friends and loved ones.

In Starkville, The Greater Starkville Development Partnership is hosting Black Friday Bonanza with deals all throughout the city. With too many deals to list, shoppers can find discounts on clothes, restaurant gift cards and more throughout the city. Check out those stores and restaurants participating at www.starkville.org/black-friday.

As with every holiday, it’s important to show our family, friends and loved ones how much we care. Supporting our local businesses is important and I always recommend strolling the streets of downtown when searching for presents. It’s also important to remember the spirit of the holidays. It’s Thanksgiving and we should all show thanks, gratitude and love, not just today, but every day. Happy Thanksgiving, y’all.

Former Dispatch reporter Mary Pollitz writes about business openings and closings, as well as other unique business news. Send tips to [email protected].