For many families, Black Friday shopping is a fun tradition. However, the yearly shopping event comes with some serious repercussions.
For one thing, the whole culture around Black Friday sends companies the message that their nasty overproduction habits will be rewarded. They learn that if they discount their extra inventory steeply enough, people will buy it. In a time when it is more important than ever for brands to be conscious of their production habits, Black Friday is counterproductive to this goal.
Additionally, consumers will buy things they don’t need just because they are on sale. That means come January people will realize they didn’t actually want that neon pink sweater that says LOL with a laughing-crying emoji on it even though it was 90% off, so said sweater will likely end up in a landfill with literal tons more pounds of textile waste joining it.
So Black Friday shopping isn’t a very conscious undertaking. But it is a tradition. Rather than just stopping cold turkey (pun intended) and doing nothing on the Friday after Thanksgiving, try starting one of these new traditions with your family and friends
Shop Second-Hand and Shop Small
If you’re not ready to give up Thanksgiving weekend as a shopping opportunity, hit up your local thrift store or resale shop on Black Friday, they probably have some great deals going on. Also, don’t forget about Black Friday’s handsome younger sibling, Small Business Saturday! Shopping small is a great way to be a more ethical consumer while also supporting your local community, and making an independent entrepreneurs holiday season a little more merry and bright.
Volunteer
The official kickoff to the holiday season is a great time to remember the spirit of giving. Get together your loved ones and find a local soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or animal shelter that needs some extra hands. There’s no better way to feel all warm and fuzzy than doing something for others.
Have a Holiday Movie Night
The Friday after Turkey Day is a great day to cozy up on the couch with family (or found family) and watch some Christmas classics! Or if you prefer, watch another girl next door realize the big city banker wasn’t the right guy and her shockingly good looking best friend has been there for her all along.
Go To The Library
Gather up your loved ones and find a new book to get you through chilly winter days. Libraries are not only fun and free, they’re also the most sustainable and minimalist way to read. I never buy new books and I don’t have an expansive bookshelf at home, but I’m still an avid reader thanks to my library. Bonus points if you find a fun Christmas-y picture book for the kiddos in your family.
Have an Upcycling Party
If you’re like me, you have a pile somewhere of bits and bobs that you’ve been meaning to upcycle. This day off work or school is a perfect time to get around to those projects, plus crafting is always more fun surrounded by friends and family
Now you’re all set to ditch the chaos at the mall and find something more fun and fulfilling to do tomorrow! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! What will your new tradition be?
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