Green Monday
Surprise your loved ones with thoughtful gifts! Last-minute shopping can be stressful, but it's never too late to spread some holiday cheer.
Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Green Monday are all unique days that are related to the holiday shopping that people often engage in at the end of the calendar year.
So get ready to learn more about Green Monday!
History of Green Monday
Although it might sound like a day that is meant to celebrate the environment, that’s not exactly the definition of “green” for this day.
Instead, the idea for Green Monday was started because of the day’s relationship to money. After all, US dollars are green and have even earned the nickname “greenbacks”.
In the retail world, Green Monday is one of the busiest and most lucrative shopping days in the industry. Occurring on the second Monday in December, Green Monday typically represents the last minute effort that many people make toward purchasing gifts for the Christmas holidays.
That’s because this is usually the last day that people can shop online so that the purchases can still arrive in time for the holidays.
eBay seems to have created the phrase for “Green Monday” in 2007, to go along with other retail days such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Some business organizations define Green Monday as the last Monday that lands at least ten days prior to Christmas Day.
Green Monday is a big shopping day and perhaps an ideal time to take advantage of sales and deals that can be found online for purchasing gifts.
How to Celebrate Green Monday
Get involved with observing Green Monday by enjoying some of these ideas for the day:
Go Shopping Online
The main theme for this day is to make sure to finish filling all of the requests on the Christmas lists of kids, friends, and other family members.
When online shopping came into play a few decades ago, it certainly changed the way that last minute shopping happens. Now, everything can be delivered right to the doorstep.
That is, of course, if it is ordered in time to arrive by Christmas. And that typically means getting those gift purchases made by Green Monday.
Embrace the Green
Even if this day is technically named based on the financial impact it makes in the retail industry, that doesn’t mean it can’t be infused with a little bit of fun as well. Think of creative ways to enjoy Green Monday, like wearing a green shirt or sweater, or even dressing in green from head to toe.
Bake Something Green
Doing some holiday baking to give away to friends and family? Green Monday would be a great day to bake something green.
Try making some cookies and decorating them with festive green frosting, or baking some fresh bread and wrapping it in a bright green ribbon before offering it up as a gift.
Shop Ahead
To avoid running into the same problems next year, perhaps this would be a good time to do some planning ahead!
Spend some time on Green Monday working on that gift list for the holidays that are coming up the following year. Have those items ready and then be better prepared for the future!
Green Monday FAQs
How did Green Monday get its name?
eBay coined “Green Monday” in 2007 after noticing a sales surge on the second Monday of December. The term “green” refers to the money spent during this peak shopping period.
Is Green Monday celebrated outside the United States?
While primarily a U.S. retail event, Green Monday’s influence has spread internationally, with retailers in various countries offering online deals to attract holiday shoppers.
How do Green Monday and Cyber Monday compare in sales?
Green Monday often ranks among the top online shopping days in December, though it typically sees slightly lower sales than Cyber Monday.
For instance, in 2016, Green Monday sales reached $1.6 billion, compared to Cyber Monday’s $2.67 billion.
What are some unique ways people celebrate Green Monday?
Beyond shopping, some individuals use Green Monday to support eco-friendly brands, aligning their purchases with environmental values.
Others take the opportunity to donate to environmental causes, giving the day a charitable twist.
Are there any myths or misconceptions about Green Monday?
A common misconception is that Green Monday is an eco-focused event due to the term “green.” In reality, it centers on online shopping and consumer spending.
How do retailers prepare for Green Monday?
Retailers often launch targeted marketing campaigns and offer exclusive online deals to boost sales on Green Monday, aiming to attract last-minute holiday shoppers.
Has Green Monday’s significance changed over time?
Initially coined by eBay, Green Monday has grown in prominence, with major retailers like Amazon and Walmart participating, making it a key date in the holiday shopping calendar.
Is Green Monday related to environmental initiatives?
Despite its name, Green Monday isn’t inherently linked to environmental causes.
However, some retailers and consumers have adopted eco-friendly practices on this day, promoting sustainable shopping habits.
How does Green Monday impact shipping deadlines?
Green Monday often coincides with standard shipping deadlines for holiday delivery, prompting consumers to complete online purchases to ensure gifts arrive on time.
What role does technology play in Green Monday?
Advancements in e-commerce platforms and mobile shopping have amplified Green Monday’s reach, enabling consumers to shop conveniently and access deals from various devices.
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