The season of frenzied cooking, cleaning, visiting and of course, purchasing gifts, has arrived. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and even as the plates are being cleared some residents of San Rafael will be gearing up for the biggest shopping day of the year.

It’s looking to be the blackest of Black Fridays, with many retail stores attempting to beat the competition and reel in more customers by opening on Thanksgiving evening.

The title Black Friday first appeared in Philadelphia 1966, as the police department tried convey the bustle of the pedestrian foot traffic, the cars on the road and the crowding in downtown stores.

It is officially the kick off to the holiday shopping season and spending in the United States, on this one single day, is near $450 billion. It is not an official holiday but many non-retail employers give employees the day off, allowing millions of Americans to partake in the shopping madness.

Popular Toys this Holiday

If you simply must get in line to spend some hard earned cash, there are hot toys and games just waiting to be snapped up.

The My Keepon Interactive Dancing Robot responds and dances to any type of music, even a tune your little one might hum.

The ever popular Elmo has a new look this year, and comes equipped with his very own rock instruments.

For the building enthusiast, the latest and greatest LEGO set is the Ninjago Limited Edition Lighting Dragon Battle.

Parents interested in regaining possession of their iPhone should check out the LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet. Designed for kids ages 4-9, this little wonder has games, reading, and all the activities are learning based.

For the future Project Runway contestant, check out the Spinmaster Bizu Ultimate Design Studio. The tween at home will be able to be able to magically transform accessories into hot collectibles.

Where to Shop for Deals

Where can residents of San Rafael go to contribute to the smorgasbord of spending on friday? There are numerous locations offering sales and deals, and even the most eco fabulous parent can snag some savings.  

Toys R Us of course, is a biggie. Opening up on Thanksgiving evening, parents can get in line and the hot toys of 2011 will on their way to the hands of children.

Kohl’s is another best bet, as the retailer carries everything from toys to housewares and clothing. Kohl’s is continuously offering discounts and sales, so you can bet there will be some bargains to be had.

If you enjoy keeping your spending dollars in the local economy but don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to save, be sure to check out San Rafael businesses such as Marin Kids & Maternity Consignment, where not only store hours will be extended but most items will be 50 percent off. This is their biggest sale day of the entire year and the sale prices will be offered throughout the weekend.

Enjoy the holiday weekend and if Black Friday is in the cards for your pocketbook, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and jogging pants!

If we forgot to add any deals, add them in the comments below. Or posst them on our Facebook page.