Buy Nothing Day was created as a way to protest the consumerism of Black Friday. This movement has been joined by the #optoutside movement, which was created by REI, who chooses to close on Black Friday so its customers can go outside instead of shopping. Others have renamed the day Green Friday to encourage socially uplifting activities over consumerism.
Whatever you want to call the day after Thanksgiving (November 28th in 2025), we can help you make it a family fun day with Black Friday alternatives. We’ve come up with some ideas for spending the day together that do not require shopping. Some are indoors, some are outside, and there is a little bit of something for everyone.
There might be last-minute events announced this year, and we plan to keep adding right up to the end. So, check back often.
Washington County Parks FREE Entry for Black Friday
Date(s): 11/27/2026 6:00 am - 10:00 pmLocation: Washington County Parks, Washington County, Minnesota
Explore Washington County Parks! On the first Tuesday of every month (non-holiday) and a few special event days (Earth Day, Get Outdoors Day and Black Friday), visit any Washington County park for FREE. No vehicle permit required.
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Minnesota State Parks: Free Park Day - Opt Outside
Date(s): 11/27/2026 8:00 am - 6:00 pmLocation: ,
Four days each year all state parks and state recreation areas across Minnesota waive the vehicle fee to visitors and offer free admission! Opt Outside today and visit one of our area State Parks.
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More Ideas for Black Friday Family Fun
Best Places to Buy Real Christmas Trees in the Twin Cities
I am traditionally a bit of a scrooge when it comes to Christmas Trees. This is because I know I’m going to be the one to get stuck taking it down It will take up valuable living space while it is in my house for the entire holiday season. I have been guilty of leaving
Twin Cities Holiday Festivals & Christmas Tree Lightings
Our Twin Cities Holiday Festival Guide is chock full of hometown festivals all dressed up in their holiday best and pumping out the Christmas cheer. Whether it’s a holiday tree lighting, a jolly ice skating event or a full-on festival with fireworks and light spectacles, we think attending one is quite simply the perfect way
Age Appropriate Volunteer Opportunities For Twin Cities Kids
Introducing your child to volunteer work can be a great way to teach them about giving back to their community. Check out these age-appropriate volunteer opportunities for kids in the Twin Cities area. Volunteering with kids–whether it’s with my kids only or we include their friends–is one of the best things that grows me as
Kid-Friendly Hikes: 10 Twin Cities Hiking Trails That Are One Mile or Less
Minnesota does not lack places to hike. The bigger problem we have hitting the trails with beginner hikers and small children is the fear we will get a mile away from anywhere and have a child who suddenly has to go number 2 or can’t walk another step and now needs to be carried. How
What’s Not Open on Black Friday?
A final note. Some of the metro libraries, museums and recreation centers are closed for the holiday. We always recommend calling ahead if you are planning an outing on this or any other holiday weekend. But, remember all metro libraries are open 24/7 and 365 days a year for “online shopping”. Find digital books and movies you can read or watch on your home electronics for instant gratification.
Related:
- Ideas for Avid Christmas Shoppers: For families who love the tradition of beginning the holiday shopping season and buying gifts on Thanksgiving weekend, we haven’t forgotten you. We have a list of local retailers celebrating Plaid Friday, Small Business Saturday and Indie First Day here.
- Our Favorite Uses for Thanksgiving Leftovers can be found here.
- This weekend often begins the sales holiday for memberships and experience gifts. If you’ve been considering a special museum membership during the past year, now is the time to check for the best deals.
- 75 Fun Indoor Games for Kids & Boredom Busters for All Ages
- 25 Easy Arts & Crafts for Kids Throughout the Year
- 60 Fun Outdoor Games for Kids