As the Crescent City shakes off its Thanksgiving turkey coma, Black Friday fever is already gripping shoppers from the French Quarter to the suburbs of Metairie.
With holiday lights twinkling along Magazine Street and traffic buzzing on I-10, locals are plotting their routes to snag doorbusters on everything from tech gadgets to festive decor.
This year, major retailers are kicking off the sales frenzy earlier than ever, with many doors swinging open at the crack of dawn – or even before.
Gone are the midnight madness marathons of yesteryear; instead, chains like Kohl’s and JCPenney are starting as early as 5 a.m. to accommodate bleary-eyed bargain hunters.
While most stores shuttered tight on Thanksgiving Day to give employees a much-needed breather, Black Friday promises extended hours to maximize your deal-snatching potential.
Expect crowds at popular spots like the Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie or the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk downtown, where national brands mingle with local flair.
Whether you’re hunting for a flat-screen TV at Best Buy or stocking stuffers at Target, planning your attack is key.
Pro tip: Download store apps for real-time inventory checks and consider carpooling to dodge the post-feast gridlock on Veterans Memorial Boulevard. And don’t forget – online deals are live now, so you can shop in pajamas if braving the bayou humidity isn’t your vibe.
To help you map out your itinerary, here’s a handy table of Black Friday hours for top area retailers. Note that some closing times may vary by specific location, so double-check with your local store. All times are local.
| Retailer | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | 6 a.m. | 11 p.m. |
| Target | 6 a.m. | Varies by location |
| Best Buy | 6 a.m. | 10 p.m. |
| Macy’s | 6 a.m. | 11 p.m. |
| Kohl’s | 5 a.m. | Midnight |
| JCPenney | 5 a.m. | Varies by location |
| Home Depot | 6 a.m. | Normal closing time |
| Lowe’s | 6 a.m. | Normal closing time |
| Costco | 9 a.m. (Executive Members) / 10 a.m. (others) | Normal closing time |
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | 6 a.m. | 10 p.m. |
| Old Navy | 5 a.m. (select stores) | Varies by location |
Stay safe out there, NOLA – hydrate, wear comfy shoes, and may the deals be ever in your favor. Happy hunting! For more local holiday coverage, including fleur-de-lis light displays and second-line shopping events, keep it tuned to NOLA News.
Want more tips? Read our guide on where to shop in New Orleans.
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