Just to clarify this issue: There is no workaround to get the
downloaded PC/Mac game to work without an internet connection. BUT if you bought the Deluxe Edition, you will also be sent
the DVD version if you pay P&P (and if you're in the US, you should receive it before X-mas). In all games past, this DVD was completely standalone and required no online activation.
However, if the game is bought with your account, there might be a slight legal problem with giving the DVD copy to a friend. If it comes to this, better ask support whether that would be OK.
If you haven't bought the Deluxe Edition yet,
it IS still in store (but more expensive than before release). I don't know for how long it will still be available, so I'm unsure if I really should advise you to wait until Thanksgiving. In the last years, TTG often had a sale that time of year.