What is the difference between these two shopping sales events, and which is best, Black Friday or Cyber Monday? Read on to find out.

The burgeoning phenomenon, which falls on Tuesday, Dec. 3, this year, sees retailers offer special one-day deals and discounts on airline flights, cruises and hotels.

Walmart unveiled its Black Friday plans Monday and said it will start the first of two sales on Veterans Day.Why it matters: The world's largest retailer can have a massive effect on how and when other retailers hold their sales.