As the leaves fall, and the cold winter begins to arise, people all across America are anxiously counting the days until the long-awaited Thanksgiving Break. Likewise, the break brings so much time, and many people have so little knowledge of how to spend it. Besides the family gatherings, delicious feast, and annual football game and parade, here are many more ways to make this year’s Thanksgiving Break one you won’t forget.

Black Friday

Starting as early as Thursday afternoon, this heart-pumping pastime is the answer to many shoppers’ prayers. “Black Friday” is the busiest shopping day of the year and the way to get best deals on clothing, appliances, and anything on one’s Christmas List. While lines may be longer and items may be limited, it’s better to get out there and feel that “shopping adrenaline”, instead of letting time pass. Stores like Target, Walmart, BestBuy, Toys-R-Us, and Macy’s offer unbelievable discounts that will leave you in the holiday spirit. Victoria Anderson (‘18) exclaims, “I love to shop on Black Friday. It’s so much fun, and I get the best discounts on items that would have cost so much more.”

Decorate for Christmas

The Thanksgiving Break is also known as the official start of the holiday season; which makes it a perfect time to start decorating for “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” If you would rather be spending the break in the comfort of your home instead of getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping, turn up the Christmas Carols and start unpacking the decorations. Freshman, Juliana Testa, stated that, “every year after Thanksgiving, I start to decorate for the holiday season. It’s really exciting and I always look forward to it.” By hanging the festive lights, buying or setting up the tree, and decking the halls, you can make good use of time and get in the “Holly Jolly” mood.

Traveling

If you’re traveling during the five day break, grab ahold of the perfect opportunity to discover the nearby sights and sounds. Rather than going to the mall, visit the holiday markets or window shops, and spend the day admiring the town’s beauty. You can also try outdoor activities appropriate to the weather, such as ice skating or sledding in colder climates. In the city of New York, there are many attractions to get you into the holiday cheer, whether it’s watching the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or taking pictures of the giant Christmas tree near the Rockefeller Center. Don’t let sleep stop you from letting time slip away.

Spend Time with Family

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to give thanks for the things you have, especially the people who will always be there for you no matter what. Even if it’s as simple as having a movie night, it’s great to spend some quality bonding time with your family. You can catch up on what they have been up to, and even make unforgettable memories, which is primarily what the holiday season is about. Spending time with loved ones is a wonderful way to ease your mind and experience the positivity that both Thanksgiving and Christmas bring, and you will truly never waste a minute or be bored around people who make you feel your best.