Buy Nothing Day

National Buy Nothing Day is observed in the United States, Sweden, and Finland on the day after Thanksgiving. The purpose of this day is to limit excess consumption and draw attention to the growing role of shopping in our lives. It was founded by Ted Dave, an artist and advertising agency worker, to raise awareness about marketing tactics that exploit customers by convincing them they need more products.

History

Buy Nothing Day coincides with Black Friday—the biggest shopping day of the year—to highlight the chaotic atmosphere in malls and online. The holiday has grown in popularity every year, with notable figures joining the movement. Ted Dave and his associates believe that people seldom consider why they buy things and often overlook the environmental impact of overconsumption.

Interesting Facts

• Over 30% of brands use red in their logos to inspire confidence and attract attention.
• In the 1980s, Coca-Cola ran a campaign encouraging people to choose their soda over plain water.
• It’s more costly to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one.
• An average 65-year-old has seen approximately 2 million commercials in their lifetime.
• In the 1800s, advertisers frequently used images of nude women to promote tobacco products.
• Before printed ads, marketing was done entirely by word of mouth.

How to Take Part

• Resist impulse purchases—if you don’t need it, don’t buy it.
• Spend time in stores observing consumer behavior without making a purchase.
• Read books or articles on marketing psychology and share insights with friends and family.
• Encourage others to join the movement and spread the message on social media with #BuyNothingDay.

When is Buy Nothing Day in 2025?

Buy Nothing Day is observed on the day after Thanksgiving each year.

Observations