10 Ways to Black Friday Outside the Box
Remember when Black Friday was the event of the season? People lining up at 2 or 3 in the morning, bundled up in layers, ready to pounce on the latest gadget or must-have toy (I’m looking at you, Cabbage Patch Kids). It was a rite of passage, passed down from one generation to the next. Now? It feels like Black Friday starts the day after Halloween. Or let’s be honest—maybe even with Prime Day in October. So, what’s a mom and daughter duo to do?
Well, my daughter and I are on a mission to keep the Black Friday magic alive—even if the deals aren’t. We are combining two of the challenges below. We’re going on our annual hunt for unique hostess gifts (she’s in charge of the teen-friendly finds, while I’m focusing on the grown-ups), and we’re adding with it a fun little twist. Nothing too difficult, nothing too crazy, but we are swapping out our usual Starbucks runs for hidden local coffee spots. So who’s with us? Are you guys up for mixing things up a little? Let’s go!
1. Holiday Cheer Hunt (this is the one my daughter and I do)
Let’s face it, Black Friday “deals” might be stretching the word “deal” these days. So, set your own budget. Challenge each other to find the coolest item under $10 in each store. You might come away with hidden treasures—or just a new appreciation for all the strange items under $10.
We take this to a new level. Our goal is to find the best friend gifts that aren’t candles, chocolates or candies. And the challenge is always…who can find the best ones at each store for under $10.
2. Under $10 Finds (this is the one my daughter and I do)
Let’s face it, Black Friday “deals” might be stretching the word “deal” these days. So, set your own budget. Challenge each other to find the coolest item under $10 in each store. You might come away with hidden treasures—or just a new appreciation for all the strange items under $10.
We take this to a new level. Our goal is to find the best friend gifts that aren’t candles, chocolates or candies. And the challenge is always…who can find the best ones at each store for under $10.
3. Ultimate Cozy Kit Hunt
Build your dream “cozy kit” by finding one item in each category: something warm (think socks or a scarf), something to sip (hot cocoa mix, anyone?), something to read, and something relaxing (maybe a mini puzzle?). It’s basically a recipe for a cozy evening—and a pretty fun challenge.
4. Color Hunt
Pick a holiday color theme (like red, green, or gold) and see who can find the most items in that color throughout the day. Bonus points if it’s holiday-related! By the end, you’ll have enough photos to create a holiday color collage.
5. Something That Reminds You Of…
Here’s a chance to get nostalgic. Find items that remind you of someone in your life or a favorite memory. Maybe you see a puzzle that brings back family game nights, or a quirky ornament that looks like maybe your Aunt Anne’s (unique) holiday decor. Snap a photo and swap stories as you go.
6. Most Unique Wrapping Supplies
Wrapping gifts doesn’t have to be a last-minute scramble. Hunt for the most unique wrapping materials in each store—funky gift tags, unusual ribbons, or anything that could add a little “wow” factor to your gift wrapping. (Because plain old gift wrap? That’s so last year.)
If you are a craft shopper, this one can be a blast. My daughter and I break Black Friday up into two parts. The second part of the day is “craft” day. And this has become quite the challenge. We’ve decided we are going to see what “unique” supplies we can come up with to use to “wrap” our gifts for friends.
7. Mystery Bag Challenge
At each store, pick up one small item without letting the other person see it, then swap “mystery bags” at the end of the day. This one keeps the surprise element alive—and makes for a fun reveal when you’re both back home, coffee in hand.
8. Most Nostalgic Find
Go on a hunt for items that bring a little holiday nostalgia. Retro games, classic toys, vintage holiday decor… anything that gives you that “blast from the past” feeling. It’s a fun way to take a trip down memory lane, one store aisle at a time
9. Stocking Stuffer Challenge
Small, budget-friendly finds are perfect for stocking stuffers, so set a price limit and see who can come up with the quirkiest stocking filler of the day. Whether it’s a tiny tool kit or a mini game, you’ll both end up with a stash of little treasures by the end.
10. Hidden Coffee Stop
Finally, no Black Friday adventure is complete without coffee. Starbucks is such an easy grab-and-go. But given the lines, it seems like everyone has that idea these days. So what about having some fun and switching things up? Add a new coffee shop (or two or three…no judgment here) to your shopping route. It could be a way to mix things up if you shop the same stores every year.
So there you have it: 10 ways to make Black Friday feel like the tradition it’s meant to be—even without the crazy deals. Whether you’re hunting for unique hostess gifts or cozy kit essentials, these scavenger hunts turn a shopping day into an experience you’ll want to repeat, year after year. Grab your list, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a day of fun!
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