Singles' Day 2026
🇨🇳 🇯🇵 🇰🇷 🇸🇬 🇦🇺 🇩🇪 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 November 11, 2026
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Singles' Day (11.11) originated in China as an anti-Valentine's Day celebration and was transformed by Alibaba into the world's largest online shopping event. With record-breaking GMV figures exceeding $84 billion in a single day, it dwarfs Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 11.11 mean for Singles Day?
The date November 11 (11/11) was chosen because the four ones resemble four bare sticks, which in Chinese internet slang represent single or solitary individuals. The day began in 1993 as a campus celebration at Nanjing University before Alibaba commercialized it in 2009.
How big is Singles Day compared to Black Friday?
Singles Day is significantly larger than Black Friday in terms of total transaction volume. Alibaba's 2021 GMV of $84.5 billion dwarfs the combined US Black Friday and Cyber Monday online sales of roughly $22 billion.
Is Singles Day only celebrated in China?
While Singles Day originated and remains largest in China, it has expanded internationally. Alibaba's AliExpress, Lazada (Southeast Asia), and Shopee run 11.11 promotions across Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
What is livestream shopping on Singles Day?
Livestream shopping is a key feature of Singles Day where hosts demonstrate and sell products in real-time video streams on platforms like Taobao Live and Douyin. Top livestreamers can generate billions in sales during 11.11.
How do international brands participate in Singles Day?
International brands participate through Alibaba's Tmall Global and cross-border e-commerce platforms, which allow foreign companies to sell directly to Chinese consumers without a local entity. Brands typically prepare 6-12 months in advance.