It’s a great feeling to score a deal on an item or gift you’ve been eyeing for months. But that natural high from a successful shopping trip can easily dissipate when you have to battle hordes of Black Friday shoppers all searching for the same deals. If you’re looking to skip the traffic, crowds and long lines this year, check out these suggestions for alternative ways to spend your Black Friday.
1. Hit the trails
When it comes to Black Friday alternatives, it doesn’t get much more peaceful than a long hike. With everyone out shopping, your favorite trails are sure to be a serene escape from the chaos of holiday shopping at the Christiana Mall or Tanger Outlets. If you’re not sure where to hike, check our fall hiking guide for inspiration.
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2. Give back
Consider trading in your credit cards for a day spent volunteering. The Brandywine Valley SPCA has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. If you love animals, fill out an application to volunteer. The Food Bank of Delaware also has plenty of volunteer opportunities throughout the holiday season. As an alternative to Black Friday shopping, consider giving the gift of your time and effort to those who need it most. The tax-free shopping will still be there tomorrow!
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3. Explore new music
For music lovers everywhere, November 29 is a very special day: RSD Black Friday. A concept created in 2007, Record Store Day celebrates independently owned record stores and vinyl culture. Each year, new music is released exclusively for the day. As an alternative way to view Black Friday shopping, RSD Black Friday encourages shoppers to hit their local record stores for holiday gifts. Artists will often partner with Record Store Day for exclusive local releases. If you want to find a record store near you, check out our record store guide.
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4. Hit the gym
Start your new year’s resolution to get fit a bit early and head to a studio or gym. You’ll get to have a great workout and perhaps stumble upon a Black Friday class package deal or new membership discount while you’re at it. Our guide to staying active during the winter in Delaware offers plenty of fitness hotspots from aerial yoga to rock climbing to kickboxing. Sure, running from store to store is an active pastime, but this Black Friday alternative takes it to the next level.
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5. Treat yourself
The holiday season can be tense and stressful at times, and it’s important to make your own health and wellness a priority. If you’re looking for alternative ways to unwind this Black Friday, we compiled 15 alternative wellness practices and where to find them around Delaware, including floatation therapy, shiatsu, acupuncture and more.
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Related: Holiday Bucket List: How to Celebrate the Season in Delaware