Los Angeles, CA, November 29, 2025
This year’s Black Friday in Southern California saw a remarkable turnout at major outlet centers as shoppers flocked to take advantage of significant holiday discounts. The Citadel Outlets and Camarillo Premium Outlets witnessed enthusiastic crowds eager to score deals, bolstered by festive atmospheres. While consumers displayed excitement, many remained cautious amid economic uncertainties, planning to spend less compared to previous years, focusing predominantly on essential items. The event highlighted local entrepreneurial spirit and community resilience in these challenging times.
Black Friday Shopping Surge in Southern California
A Thriving Return of Retail Enthusiasm
Los Angeles, CA – This year’s Black Friday saw a vibrant turnout at Southern California’s major outlet centers, with shoppers excited to snag significant holiday discounts. Early morning queues and bustling parking lots at popular destinations like the Citadel Outlets in Commerce and the Camarillo Premium Outlets highlighted the resilient spirit of local consumers eager to make the most of holiday shopping amid economic uncertainties.
The continuation of holiday shopping traditions, such as Black Friday, reflects a strong entrepreneurial culture in Los Angeles, where local businesses strive to adapt and cater to consumer demands. Outlet shopping is not just a bargain hunt but a social experience, drawing families together and showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of Southern California’s retailers.
At the Citadel Outlets
The Citadel Outlets launched their impressive 27-hour “shopping marathon” on Thanksgiving evening at 8 p.m., featuring huge discounts ranging from 50% to 70% off at stores like Coach, Nike, and Doc Martens. Shoppers eagerly arrived as early as 4 a.m., standing in line for hours to secure the best deals. The atmosphere was further enlivened by live music and festive decorations, attracting families looking to combine savings with holiday cheer.
Camarillo Premium Outlets Bring in Crowds
In Ventura County, the Camarillo Premium Outlets enjoyed significant foot traffic, with a line stretching outside popular stores like Lululemon as shoppers clamored for leggings priced at $39. The three-mile stretch featuring over 160 stores catered to diverse tastes, appealing to a broad spectrum of shoppers. Families braved the early morning chill, often traveling over an hour to partake in the seasonal festivities.
Shoppers Show Caution Amid Economic Uncertainties
Even with high participation rates, many shoppers approached Black Friday with caution, reflecting the broader economic climate. Reports indicated that consumers expected to spend approximately 14% less this holiday season compared to the prior year, focusing their budgets on essential items and seeking bargains. This sentiment reveals an adaptive approach as residents navigate challenges such as inflation and shifting economic conditions.
Cross-Border Shopping Trends in Calexico
In Calexico, shoppers from Mexicali capitalized on advantageous exchange rates and proximity to the Gran Plaza Outlets. The easy access made it a popular destination for families aiming to maximize their holiday shopping budgets, demonstrating an interconnected regional economy that benefits both sides of the border.
Conclusion: A Successful Kickoff to the Holiday Season
The Black Friday shopping experience across Southern California’s outlet centers showcased a blend of enthusiasm and caution among consumers. The combination of early openings, extensive promotions, and festive environments resulted in a successful kickoff to the holiday shopping season, underlining the importance of local commerce and the community’s resilience in the face of economic challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the operating hours of the Citadel Outlets on Black Friday?
The Citadel Outlets began their 27-hour “shopping marathon” on Thanksgiving night at 8 p.m., with stores remaining open through 11 p.m. on Friday.
How much were shoppers expected to spend this holiday season compared to last year?
Shoppers planned to spend 14% less this holiday season compared to the previous year, focusing on essential items and seeking bargains.
Why did shoppers from Mexicali visit the Gran Plaza Outlets in Calexico?
Shoppers from Mexicali crossed the border to visit the Gran Plaza Outlets due to its proximity and favorable exchange rates, making it an accessible destination for families looking to stretch their holiday budgets.
Key Features of Black Friday Shopping in Southern California
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Hours | Citadel Outlets: Open from 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving night through 11 p.m. on Friday. |
| Discounts Offered | Up to 70% off at various stores, including Coach, Nike, and Doc Martens. |
| Shoppers’ Spending Plans | Planned to spend 14% less compared to the previous year, focusing on essential items and seeking bargains. |
| Cross-Border Shopping | Shoppers from Mexicali visited the Gran Plaza Outlets in Calexico due to proximity and favorable exchange rates. |
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