My tradition started with a couple Bloody Marys at The Coach House, on Black Friday @ 8am. It's a dive bar, tourist trap, dripping with Christmas lights, right in Old Town Scottsdale. I started doing my Black Friday shopping from this place maybe 10-12 years ago when the apps became easy to use. Drink and shop. This year I did 0 online purchases, just sat and enjoyed the early morning people watching at the outdoor table. Then a coney island/diner breakfast, pork loin and eggs.
Yesterday, we did a trek to 6000 ft to get our Christmas tree, which then sits on the patio draped in many strings of lights. We found one right away in our usual spot. I packed a small lunch of sandwiches and olives/pickles/fruit. We shared an excellent bottle of Surly Darkness 2021 vintage. Got back at a very reasonable hour to set the tree in the stand. Tonight we may string the lights, maybe.
The weather here has been in the high 70F's/80F's. True SW holiday temps. Lots of outdoor events to attend (or not)). People selling tamales at intersections are increasing exponentially.
That's the start of the season for my locale.
*also, a small glass of egg nog is accompanying my coffee each morning.