8 Alternatives to Shopping on Black Friday

November—the month of elections, turkeys and a relentless onslaught of Black Friday ads from every retailer known to man.

Even if you have an aversion to crowds and malls, it can be tempting to buy into the Black Friday madness for the sake of getting those so-called deals.

Of course, if you’re on a tight budget, even the best “deal” can derail your slow but steady train to financial freedom. Add the traffic, long lines and pushing and shoving, and you may find yourself asking, “Is this really worth it?”

If you want to save your money (and your sanity) this year, try one of these eight shopping alternatives and enjoy a fun and peaceful day-after-Thanksgiving.

Work off that pumpkin pie (in a fun way!)

Fresh air is so much better than mall air. Since all the crowds are out shopping, Black Friday is a perfect day for a hike or a long bike ride. Pack a lunch, grab the family and check out a nearby park or trail.

Decorate for Christmas

Bust out the holiday decorations, crank the Christmas tunes and go to town. You could even hop in the car and head to a tree farm to get your choice of Christmas trees before they’re all picked over.

Help people in need

This is the antithesis of consumerism gone wild, and it’s exactly the kind of thing believers should be known for. Before Thanksgiving, make some calls to local soup kitchens, shelters or other ministries, and see how you can pitch in on Black Friday. It could also be a great time to visit shut-ins, nursing home residents or hospital patients. I can almost guarantee it’ll be more memorable—and certainly more meaningful—than any shopping trip.

Have a post-Thanksgiving party

If Thanksgiving is a day for family, Black Friday can be a day for friends. Invite people over for a day-after-Thanksgiving get-together featuring music, games and turkey sandwiches. Or, you could try my husband’s signature post-Thanksgiving meal…the Kitchen Sink Omelette. Basically, you take your leftovers—turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, etc.—and pile them into an omelet. I thought it sounded gross until I tried it. It’s actually delicious.

Create your own Christmas gifts

If done correctly, this can save you a ton of money. Surf Pinterest for crafty gift ideas and make them happen. This takes a little planning in order to avoid running out to the store for last-minute items.

Get cozy at home

Let the masses fight over all that stuff they think they need. You’ll be enjoying a quiet day in your pajamas. Play board games, watch Christmas movies or cuddle up with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa. Whatever you do, take advantage of the day off by getting some much-needed R&R.

Visit local attractions

Whether you check out a zoo, an aquarium or a local museum, chances are you won’t have to fight too many crowds. Some attractions even offer discounts on Black Friday to encourage people to do something other than shop.

Get your Christmas cards finished early

If you’re like me, Christmas cards are an annual thorn in your side. And that’s mostly because of procrastination. Use Black Friday to take that Christmas card photo, address envelopes or sign cars. Or go cheap and get creative with a video e-card.