The day after Thanksgiving means I can eat pie for breakfast. For others, it’s a chance at amazing deals before dawn. Whatever camp you’re in, remember that Black Friday is really just about getting into the Holiday spirit with family and friends.
Take A Hike! (Literally)
Clean-up the crumbs from Thursday’s feast, throw on some warm clothes and head out for a family hike or nature walk. Check out FCMB’s picks for best hiking spots to get your heart rate going and work off some of that pie. Our family’s go-to spots include Lake Mohegan (Fairfield), Earthplace (Westport) and Southport Park, which offers a short loop for toddlers.
If hiking isn’t your thing, take advantage of free shoreline access and hit the beach. If you’re a animal lover like me, consider Jennings Beach in Fairfield where dogs are allowed off leash and you’ll often see horseback riders on the sand.
Volunteer
The Holiday Season is all about giving so why not volunteer? Get the whole family to join in the experience by picking from one of these great organizations to support. There are so many opportunities to give locally and be a force of change in your own community.
Get In The Spirit
The 8th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival cleverly kicks off on Black Friday. Take a drive down to Greenwich, CT where you can catch a glimpse of the Santa’s Reindeer and snap a photo with Kris Kringle himself (he arrives at Noon). Stay for lunch and take the kids to Bruce Park playground to get some energy out before heading home.
The Great Trains Holiday Exhibit also begins on Black Friday at the Wilton Historical Society. FCMB contributor Aarika tells us there’s even a special room for younger guests with buttons and a Thomas the Tank Engine and a Brio set for hands-on fun. You’ll definitely want to read through the rest of her picks for November 2016!
Shop Local
I actually enjoy a bit of shopping on Black Friday. I’m not one to wait in line at 5am, but I love to head into town and see everyone getting into the spirit of giving. Check out FCMB’s Holiday Guide and don’t forget to support local businesses this season. While it might be easier to jump online to save time, you’ll have more fun visiting local shops to find one-of-a-kind, special gifts for everyone on your list. Get the kids involved and consider purchasing something extra to donate at a local toy drive in your town.
Stay Cozy
There’s nothing wrong with staying home on Black Friday. Light a fire and spend the day crafting with the littles (try this new take on the Advent Calendar). Cuddle on the couch with some leftovers and plan your dream holiday decor. Play some board games as a family and carve out some reading time all around. Make popcorn with M&Ms and cue up Elf (“… smiling’s my favorite!”) or classics like A Christmas Story and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
