For one reason or another, many people in the US opt out or are unable to spend Thanksgiving at the dinner table with their family. Here are some tips to fill that space that you might have on Thursday.

Go Black Friday Shopping

Nowadays, Black Friday isn’t so much of a Friday event, but more of a post-meal Thursday event. Get a head start on some of the savings while everyone else is arguing with their aunts and uncles!

Go Get Your Own “Thanksgiving” Meal

While some facets of society come to a relative standstill, many chain restaurants remain open on holidays throughout the year, including Denny’s, Boston Market, IHOP, or Rainforest Café.

Plan a Mini Trip or Outing

You more than likely have the day off of work, school, or both anyways, so take the time to cross something off your list for the year – see the movie you haven’t seen yet, go to a park you’ve been meaning to go to, get started on a new hobby – the day is yours to ultimately do what you will with it.

Everyone has their own intricacies and traditions that they find work for them in place of the classic Thanksgiving dinner, so if you have one you’re particularly fond of, don’t be afraid to share your five cents in the comments!