Buy Nothing Day offers a pause in a season driven by spending. The 24-hour campaign asks people to avoid purchases in stores and online as a statement against excess and waste. Canadian artist Ted Dave created the idea in 1992 as a small protest against materialism before it gained support from environmental and social advocates.
The anti-corporate magazine Adbusters and its founder, Kalle Lasn, later brought the event to a global audience, spreading participation across Europe, Asia, South America and Australia. Observed right after Thanksgiving, Buy Nothing Day creates a direct contrast to Black Friday’s shopping rush. Participants view the day as a reminder to consider the true cost of consumption and to focus instead on community, sustainability and mindful living.
BUY NOTHING DAY EVENTS
https://www.adbusters.org/buy-nothing-day-2025