Black Friday in South Africa: Easy Tips and Best Deals

If you’ve ever gone shopping on Black Friday, you’ll know it can be intense. Shops are packed, people are rushing, and everyone is trying to grab the biggest bargain.

I remember one year I went into a store “just to look around” and somehow ended up in a crowd all reaching for the same TV. By the time I got home, I was tired, slightly embarrassed, and laughing at myself. That’s when I realised something important — you need a plan for Black Friday.

These days, I shop differently. I don’t want the stress, and I don’t want to spend money on things I don’t need. I prefer shopping smart, comparing prices online, and only buying what’s truly useful for my family. If that sounds like you too, these tips will help you make the most of Black Friday 2025.

When is Black Friday in South Africa?

The first question everyone asks: When is Black Friday?

It happens every year on the last Friday of November, which means this year it falls on Friday, 28 November 2025.

But here’s what many people don’t realise — South African stores rarely limit it to one day anymore.

Retailers like Game, Makro, and Takealot often start their Black Friday specials early, sometimes running deals for weeks or even the entire month of November. This means you can plan ahead, shop at your own pace, and avoid the chaos that used to define Black Friday shopping.

Black Friday Specials to Look Out For

Not every “special” is worth it. Over time, I’ve learned which kinds of deals are actually helpful for families — and which ones are just marketing noise.

Here are the categories that tend to offer genuine value:

• Electronics: TVs, laptops, and phones usually come with major discounts.
• Appliances: Dishwashers, fridges, and kettles can drop by thousands of rands.
• Groceries: Bulk items like rice, oil, flour, and even toilet paper often go on special.
• Toys: It’s a great time to buy Christmas gifts without the December rush.
• Household goods: Bedding, pots, and cleaning supplies are usually marked down.

One of my best-ever purchases was a dishwasher I bought at half price. It wasn’t the most exciting deal, but it changed my life — fewer arguments about dishes and more family time in the evenings.

Game Black Friday 2025

Game’s Black Friday is one of the most popular events every year. They’re known for slashing prices on electronics and appliances, but their doorbuster deals sell out fast.

If you plan to shop at Game, check their website or printed catalogue before the day. Make a list of what you want and note the store’s opening times. That way, you can go straight for what you need instead of wasting time in the rush.

Makro Black Friday 2025

Makro’s Black Friday is ideal if you like buying in bulk. They usually offer strong discounts on TVs, laptops, cleaning supplies, and pantry items.

For families, this approach makes sense — buy once and save for months. I once filled a trolley at Makro with snacks, cereals, and household goods during Black Friday, and it lasted us through summer. My husband joked that I had done “the year’s shopping in one day.” He wasn’t wrong.

Takealot Black Friday 2025

If you prefer peace and quiet, Takealot’s Black Friday is your best option. Their Blue Dot Sale runs for several days, and you can shop from your phone or laptop without leaving the house.

Here’s my favourite trick:

• Add the items you want to your Takealot wishlist before Black Friday.
• When the sale starts, check what’s really discounted.
• Avoid “fake specials” by comparing prices before you buy.

It’s a relaxed way to shop — no queues, no trolleys, no rushing.

My Black Friday Shopping Tips

After years of learning the hard way (and buying things I never used), these are my go-to tips for shopping smart:

1. Plan ahead. Write a list of what you need before the sales start.
2. Set a budget. Decide what you can afford — and stick to it.
3. Compare prices. Some discounts aren’t as big as they seem.
4. Shop online. Check Takealot, Game, and Makro for deals before heading to the store.
5. Stay calm. If you miss a deal, another one will come around.

Remember, saving money isn’t about how much you buy — it’s about buying what matters.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday in South Africa doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and a clear plan, it can actually help you save money and tick off a few Christmas gifts early.

Whether you’re heading to Game’s Black Friday, stocking up at Makro, or browsing Takealot’s Blue Dot Sale from home, focus on what your family really needs — not what everyone else is grabbing.

This year, I’ll be shopping smart, staying calm, and maybe adding one small treat for myself. Because yes, moms deserve good deals too.

Join the Conversation

Do you shop during Black Friday, or do you prefer to skip it? Share your best tips or your funniest shopping story in the comments — I’d love to hear it.

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