Some people refuse to pay attention to Black Friday. It's just a bunch of hype, they say -- the holiday season should be about family and friends, not about buying stuff.

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If you're one of those people, you're right! And we salute you.

But if you're BF-curious; if you feel the siren's call of a zillion deals; if you follow Black Friday news just so you can mock it; if you're on the fence about buying a new TV; if you're a shopping fanatic -- then this guide's for you.

• Start with our three-step guide to being a smart Black Friday shopper. You'll find out how to make good buying decisions (including not buying anything at all), and how to tell good deals from bad for TVs, appliances, video games, and many other products.

• If you're going to shop offline on Black Friday, plan your route with our map of D.C.-area malls, Best Buys, Targets, Walmarts, Toys R Us'es, and local shops.

Then check out our suggestions for where to eat once your shopping is done.

• Read about how Black Friday came to D.C., and whether it's really the busiest shopping day of the year.

• We imagine what the Washington region's Black Friday will be like in 2020. Featuring Greater Greater Washington's David Alpert.

• Get a glimpse of how the Potomac Yard Best Buy prepares for Black Friday madness.