Delaware State Parks and REI want you to #OptOutside on Black Friday rather than stand in line at the mall.
You might remember REI’s “Opt Outside” program from last year. The outdoor apparel and equipment store decided to remain closed on Black Friday— at a time when many stores were extending Black Friday by actually opening before Thanksgiving was even over— encouraging families to instead take advantage of their day off by enjoying the great outdoors. That included REI’s 12,287 employees, who received a paid day off.
According to REI, about 1.4 million people decided to #OptOutside nationwide last year, and they’re asking everyone to do it again! Locally, Delaware State Parks invite you to hit the trails: admission to all of Delaware’s state parks as well as the Brandywine Zoo will be free of charge on Black Friday.
The parks will open at 8am, but park offices will be closed.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of such an innovative and exciting movement, and hope to see many families and friends enjoying our parks all day,” said Delaware State Parks Marketing Director Madison Watkins. “Those willing to forego marathon shopping and opt instead for a day of hiking, biking and other adventures will find more than 100 miles of trails to explore throughout Delaware, spectacular locations for bird and wildlife watching, scenic views and much more.”
Not sure where to go or what to do? You can go check out the Delaware State Parks website and search by park or types of activities, or check out the list of trails. (And don’t worry: if you simply can’t visit the parks on Black Friday, they are entrance fee free from November 30th through March 1st of next year!)
Be part of the national movement by using the hashtag #OptOutside on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your outdoor activities on Black Friday. You can also upload your #OptOutside photos at REI.com/out-outside.