Today is Black Friday: one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Last year, Americans spent ~$5 billion in only 24 hours. Stores across the country have extended hours and crazy sales today – like Target, who opened their doors at 7 a.m., or Best Buy, who has iPad minis on sale for $249.99.

Here are a few quick facts about Black Friday:

🛍️ According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans are expected to spend about $61 billion over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend.

🛍️ Men are expected to spend nearly double that of women, budgeting an average $626.44 compared with $342.50 for women.

🛍️ Of the generations, Gen X plans to spend $592.83 on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. That’s higher than the average $560.17 Gen Y says they’ll spend in 2018 and more than double the $247.92 reported by baby boomers.

🛍️ Retail sales in November have increased by $94.39 billion compared to a decade ago. ($453.5 billion was spent in November 2017 + $341.1 billion in November 2007.)

...But today isn’t just for the mall rats. The Friday following Thanksgiving is also coined “#OptOutside Day” by outdoor adventure retailer REI. Four years ago, the store pledged to keep their doors closed on Black Friday to fight consumerism, and instead encouraged people to go do something outside – a.k.a. #OptOutside.

Whether you want to get in line at Best Buy at 3 a.m. or hit Table Rock after Thanksgiving leftovers (or both), we’ve got your guide.

Day In

Some of the most popular things going for cheap today are TVs, smartphones, video game consoles + home appliances. Not everything is going to be a steal, though. What should you wait to buy? Toys, Christmas decorations + outdoor essentials. Check out some other deals here.

Bonus: Here are a couple local deals y'all told us about:

RockerBelles will have a sale going on instore and online November 23-26. 20% off all regular priced clothing. Customers can use code sale20 online.

Black Friday Sales & Door Buster Deals at Urban Petals | 1st 20 Customers will receive a free Votive Candleholder with any $10+ purchase

$40 Black Friday Signature Detox Cleanse at Southern Pressed Juicery. PreOrders only. Send them a message via Instagram or call 864.729.8626 to order by Wednesday for Friday or Saturday pick up at the Downtown Greenville location.

DYK that tomorrow, Nov. 24 is Small Business Saturday?

If you’re spending the day outside today, check out our Small Biz newsletter, and go shop and eat local tomorrow.

Be on the lookout for our holiday gift guide on Tuesday as well.

Day Out

If you’re looking to #RoadTrip on your day outside, check out our guides to Asheville (you can also watch the leaves change in AVL by using this guide), or make it a weekend and head out to Columbia or Charleston.

If you’re looking for some serious outdoor adventures, here’s a list of great trails to hike nearby.

If you want to stay in the area, there’s still plenty of outside to experience. If you check out our guide to Greenville, or grab a bite or a drink during happy hour. If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, check out this list of pup-friendly patios.

We are also lucky enough to have local, state + national parks right here in the Upstate. With this fall weather, exploring Table Rock State Park or Paris Mountain will be full of fresh air and a great way to spend your day out. You can pack a picnic for Falls Park, or set up your eno + take in the scenery with a good book.

If you’re off work, enjoy the holiday. If you are going to the office today, at least it’s Friday. 😉

How are you planning to spend your Black Friday? Tag us in your photos for a chance to be reposted.

– Jordan