@KMac I don’t think Lisa is too off base in her opinion. Yes it is about making a statement, however, as Lisa pointed out, she tries to live this way all the time. Frankly, I’d rather have someone not participate in BND, and live this way all the time, then participate and be a shop crazy fiend the rest of the year. I’m glad BND is around, and that plenty of folks participate, but in this case, I’m thinking Lisa is still on our side; you know?

If you don’t understand the reasoning behind Buy Nothing Day, I suggest you try a Google search for information and history on the subject. By not shopping the day after Thanksgiving you are sending a message; you are in essence an Activist. You may pay more for an item the next day, but that isn’t the point. Sometimes paying more money to make a statement is more important than saving it.

I know a lot of people get up early the day after Thanksgiving, itchy to get back into stores because they had one whole day without the option to go shopping.

I remember as a teenager, the day after thanksgiving I was dying to go to the mall, only due to the fact that I hadn’t had the option to do so the day of Thanksgiving, but also because I was bored out of my mind.

For many people, this could serve as a good way to prepare for Christmas by giving to others, or to catch up on life. To put the Christmas decorations up, write cards, do some reorganizing or bake something tasty.

No matter what, it’s good to have a plan!

@Lisa excellent points on why someone would shop on Black Friday, possibly the only good argument I’ve heard. I agree that we should take advantage of sales if you were going to buy something anyhow – Buy Nothing Day, more so than being a day to just not shop, is about making a statement, which is why I like to promote it. It’s one way to get people thinking about consumer issues, and frankly, there aren’t enough days or events like this. On the flip side, if you’re living as a consumer in moderation each and every day, it’s another story. This event, I think, helps people who are not living simply to consider it as an option. Hope that all made sense. Great comment BTW.