Black Friday. It’s such a somber name for something that’s become a kind of festival in Hawaii, where people have raised shopping to the level of a full family tradition.

Of course, the “black” means businesses say goodbye to the red ink for a time, the day after Thanksgiving marking the official start of a holiday shopping season in which they make a large proportion of their annual profits. And as the economy is doing well at this time of full employment, ‘tis the season for shoppers sharing some of the green they’ve been able to save.

For many brick-and-mortar stores, however, it’s not such a simple matter. They now face stiff competition from online sellers in persuading customers to part with their cash, or to hand over the credit card.

Increasingly, stores must find ways to lure people away from the point-and-click type of shopping and toward the shopping meccas of the islands. Chain and big-box stores can build loss-leaders into the budget, mailing out brochures about deep discounts or big prizes.

Smaller Hawaii-based businesses can do some of that, but often rely on merchandise with local appeal or other attractions.

It helps that isle shoppers come so willingly — even days early — to score the best deals. The pre-sale campouts to save a place in line at major retailers have become a family affair in themselves. Some people don’t even take the day off for the Thanksgiving feast itself, which to old-school types does seem a bit extreme.

But to each his own. It’s undeniable that shopping is a major priority for Hawaii residents, who have been known to go a bit crazy at the premiere of any given national chain setting down roots in this state. Selected chains do some of their best business here, especially those that sell in bulk and at a discount.

It’s that ohana thing. Many large extended families need the markdown they can get from merchants where they shop year-round, as well as from the vendors they like for Christmas gift-giving. And they’ve made trips to the store a family affair, something you don’t see on the mainland nearly as often.

However, if there is any kind of cautionary note needed here, it’s this: Shoppers, don’t bust the budget on Day 1. Pace yourselves. If you’re feeling a bit wealthy, at least at this stage, spread some of that around. The best gifts are not uniquely offered by major retailers.

The day after the big consumerism launch date is Small Business Saturday. The Hawaii-based shops and businesses hang their hopes on a financially healthy holiday shopping sprint as well, and they often offer things you can’t get anywhere else. Mainland loved ones on gift lists love to get things with a Hawaii vibe.

And among the very small businesses are craft fairs. Many of these artisans are part-time crafters who earn the majority of their income at this time of year and bring out their best work for holiday sales. Some of these gifts would be truly one-of-a kind, appreciated by those here in the islands as well as those far-away friends.

Finally, after all the bags and boxes have been hauled home to be wrapped or hidden away from prying eyes, and after any online deals have been snagged, there’s this reminder that those in need would like to have a little joy in their life, too. Giving Tuesday is described as a “global giving movement.”

There are chapters of the organization throughout the globe; check out the website, www.givingtuesday.org/locations and follow the Hawaii chapter (twitter.com/GivingTuesdayHI).

Even without any such initiative, there are many ways to give back in ways that don’t cost a dime. The gift of personal time to friends and family are priceless, and truly memorable.

Finally, leave a little time for yourself to enjoy this season. It’s frenzied, sure. But it’s fabulous, too.