TIMES HONGKONG, JAKARTA – Global shopping discount festivals are a much-anticipated time for millions of people around the world. From the global phenomenon of Black Friday to unique celebrations like Singles' Day in China, the world is adorned with shopping festivals that offer incredible deals.

7 of the World's Largest Shopping Discount Festivals

1. Black Friday in the United States: Its Origins

Black Friday falls on the Friday after Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This shopping festival marks the unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season in the United States. The term "Black Friday" originated in Philadelphia in the 1960s when it was used to describe the crowds of shoppers and heavy traffic on the day after Thanksgiving.

2. Cyber Monday: Online Shopping Extravaganza

Following Black Friday, Cyber Monday takes the spotlight. It's a day dedicated to online shopping, with many retailers offering incredible discounts on their websites. The name "Cyber Monday" was coined in 2005, and it has become one of the most significant online shopping days worldwide. Cyber Monday usually falls on the first Monday after Thanksgiving.

3. Singles' Day in China: The World's Biggest Shopping Festival

Singles' Day, also known as "Double 11," is celebrated every November 11th in China. Initially, it started as an unofficial anti-Valentine's Day for single people. However, over time, it has evolved into the world's largest online shopping day, with massive discounts offered by Alibaba and other retailers.

4. Diwali in India: Festival of Lights and Shopping

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a significant cultural celebration in India. It's a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and light oil lamps and candles. Many businesses offer special discounts and promotions during this festive period.

5. National Shopping Day in Indonesia: Harbolnas

Indonesia has its version of a shopping festival called "Hari Belanja Nasional" or known as "Harbolnas" (National Online Shopping Day) for online consumers. This event typically takes place on December 12th, offering significant discounts on various products, attracting both online and offline shoppers.

6. Black Friday in Europe: A Global Trend

Black Friday is becoming increasingly popular in Europe, with many countries participating in this shopping frenzy. Retailers offer substantial discounts, and shoppers take advantage of the opportunity to save on their holiday spending.

7. Carnival in Brazil: A Different Celebration

While Carnival in Brazil is not a shopping festival, it's a time when people spend a lot on costumes, party supplies, and entertainment. Although it's not a shopping event, it reflects the global tradition of celebrating and spending money during special occasions.

In conclusion, while Black Friday may have its roots in the United States, the concept of shopping festivals and special discounts has become a global phenomenon. Each culture adds its unique touch to these events, celebrating the tradition and joy of shopping.

Indonesia has embraced this trend with its own Harbolnas. Whether it's Black Friday, Diwali, or Singles' Day, these festivals invite everyone to enjoy the thrill of shopping and the happiness of finding great discounts.