The History of Black Friday – Cork’s Annual Gift Card Giveaway
Before it became synonymous with holiday shopping and incredible deals, Black Friday actually had a much darker origin. The term first appeared in 1869, when two investors, Jay Gould and James Fisk, attempted to corner the U.S. gold market. Their scheme caused gold prices to skyrocket – and when the government intervened, the market crashed. The fallout was devastating. The stock market dropped by 20%, foreign trade halted, and the value of corn and wheat plummeted.
It wasn’t until nearly a century later that “Black Friday” took on its modern meaning. By the 1960s, police officers in Philadelphia began using the term to describe the chaos of post-Thanksgiving shopping traffic and crowds. Eventually, retailers rebranded the name – shifting its meaning from economic disaster to a day of profitability, when businesses finally went “into the black.”
Today, Black Friday marks the unofficial start of the holiday season. It’s celebrated by shoppers, restaurants, and small businesses across the country – including right here at Cork.
Cork’s Black Friday Gift Card Giveaway
This year, we’re continuing one of our favorite traditions. The Annual Black Friday Gift Card Giveaway, starting at Noon on Friday, November 28.
Here’s how it works:
- In-house purchase only (we will not take phone orders)
- Buy one $50 gift card, get $25 free!
- Valid only at Cork Restaurant
- The $25 bonus card can be used beginning January 2026
It’s the perfect way to treat someone special (or yourself!) to the gift of great food, wine, and conversation at Cork. Every year, guests line up early to take advantage of this limited-time offer, making it one of our most anticipated events of the season.
Make a Day of It
After Thanksgiving, gather your family and friends and join us for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, share good food, and take home a little extra value with our gift card special.
Black Friday might have started with a market crash – but at Cork, we like to think of it as the beginning of something wonderful. A season of giving, gathering, and gratitude. Need a Gift Card BEFORE Thanksgiving that can be used at all Friedman Hospitality Group Restaurants? Purchase one here!