Black Friday - the retail extravaganza that marks the start of the Christmas shopping season - falls this year on Friday 29 November.

     Originating in the USA (where it's a highlight of the Thanksgiving weekend), the Black Friday phenomenon brings discounts and sales across fashion, furnishings and all other kinds of consumer goods. In recent years, the concept has been warmly embraced across Britain and Europe; but there's nothing like crossing the pond and browsing for bargains where it all began.

      Bon Voyage, the North America travel specialist, recommends taking a trip to New York over the Thanksgiving holiday. As well as being first in the line for in-store Black Friday deals, visitors can also catch the spectacle of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which takes place on Thursday 28 November, 2024.

      The event - this year in its 98th iteration - fills the streets with marching bands, live performances, colourful floats and giant balloons that make their way from Central Park to the Macy’s store on Midtown's Herald Square.

      Stay nearby at luxurious 70 Park Avenue, a landmark hotel within 10 minutes’ walk of Macy’s and other must-visit New York attractions such as Grand Central Station and the Empire State Building. 

      Bon Voyage can package five nights at 70 Park Avenue over the festive weekend from £1,359pp, including flights from London with Virgin Atlantic and accommodation on room-only basis. For bookings and more information, call 0800 316 0194 or visit www.bon-voyage.co.uk.