CICERO, N.Y. (NCC News) In response to rising COVID-19 cases around the country, major retailers like Walmart and Target have decided to close stores on Black Friday this year.
Families who have once been affected by short dinners because members had to leave early for work, or families who are divided because some want to shop and others do not, will not have that issue this year if they planned on visiting either retailer.
Although the holiday is a few months away, the retailers have got ahead of the coronavirus pandemic to ensure the safety for both employees and shoppers. Walmart has even announced they will be giving a bonus of $150 to $300 dollars.
Long time Walmart employee Xarius Jones has family and friends who spend the holiday differently. Jones said his coworkers and the craziness the night brings is something he will miss, but he’s excited he might get to see some NFL football games this year.
“It’s kind of bittersweet,” said Jones. “I’m going to definitely enjoy having that extra time with my family, and being able to sit back and eat with the family, even though we don’t know if we’ll have football this year.”
Thanksgiving dinner at the table is not a tradition for Elisia Ingram’s family. The Ingrams took pride in trying to be the first family in line when Walmart opened for the Black Friday event. This year their tradition comes to a stop.
The Ingram family will have to find another way to find these blockbuster deals. Ingram said online hasn’t been ruled out. They know it won’t be the same thrill, but the time spent together is important
“I feel like we have a time to actually bond internally, in the house,” Ingram said.
