...here’s how to get out of the house today.

When my family used to celebrate a more traditional Thanksgiving, it took weeks of planning. Then the Friday after a full day of activity, I always felt “now what?” Whether you want to exercise off last night’s dinner, really kick off the holiday season, or tackle Black Friday, here are some of your best bets. Of course, if you don’t plan on leaving the couch, that’s valid too.

Get out ➡️

If you’re looking to burn off some calories outdoors, here are hiking trails closest to Columbia. If you don’t mind a drive, here’s a list of the best in S.C.
Go ice skating at Main Street Ice on Boyd Plaza, open 1-10 p.m. today.
Get your Black Friday on. Here’s a guide to stores/deals in S.C.
Go Griswold and cut down your own Christmas tree. Here’re the best farms nearby.
Christmas cards need to be mailed soon. Take your family/engagement/graduation/just-for-fun-photos at these 10 ‘gram approved Columbia locations.
Go see some holiday lights tonight. We tell you where in the Briefs. ⤵️
Watch the Gamecocks + Tigers play football at Willy-B. Here are the 7 best tailgating spots – and don’t forget the sausage dip.
Take a #DayTrip. Here’s a family-friendly list of things to do in Greenville, or go see Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights (if you haven’t gotten your sparkly fill yet).

Stay in ⬅️

Everyone has eggnog + spiked cider for the holidays, but this list has 10 holiday drinks to make that you haven’t tried yet. Or DIY a local favorite – here’s Motor Supply’s hot apple cider cocktail recipe.
Upgrade your gift wrapping with some easy DIY hacks. I compiled some easy Pinterest ideas I’m definitely trying this year.
Have a holiday movie marathon. Choose from the 25 of the best holiday movies since 1990 or the 13 best Christmas movies on Netflix right now.
Skip the mall madness and get started on Cyber Monday online shopping. Here are your guides for the best travel, tech + random tech buys.
If you’re not still full from yesterday, you’re sure to find a recipe you like in this list of 90 easy Christmas cookies. My favorite requires minimal effort. See it here.

I wish I could wake up early + exercise away yesterday’s bad food decisions, but my day-after-Thanksgiving is all about rest + relaxation. I’ve been in the Christmas spirit for awhile now, so today will be spent milling around Charleston before it’s back to reality on Monday.

Happy holiday season, Cola (that’s finally acceptable to say now, right?),

— Jodi