Each year, national retailer, REI and Georgia State Parks team up in November to encourage people all over the U.S. to #OptOutside on Black Friday instead of waiting in line at various retailers for material items. In doing so, this promotes over all appreciation for the things that matter in life and allows for much needed family time. Below, I’ve included additional information about the national event and would love if you could share the information provided with readers in the coming days/weeks. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you need additional information or photos to do so – happy to provide and so appreciate your support. 

Trade shopping malls for waterfalls this Black Friday when you choose to #OptOutside. Created by outdoor retailer REI and celebrated by Georgia’s State Parks, the national movement encourages Americans to spend time with friends and family in the great outdoors, rather than fighting shopping mall crowds and traffic. Added bonus: working of that pumpkin pie! Many Georgia State Parks are hosting ranger-led events on Friday, November 29, including:

• Birding for Beginners at Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs (9 a.m.)

• 7-Mile Hike at Fort Yargo State Park, Winder (10 a.m.)

• Colonial Toys and Games Outdoors at Fort King George Historic Site, Darien (1 p.m.)

• Nature Walk at Magnolia Springs State Park, Millen (1 p.m.)

• Nature Sketching at Etowah Indian Mounds, Cartersville (2 p.m.)

• Post-Thanksgiving Paddle at Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge (3 p.m.)

 Find park locations and more events on GaStateParks.org. 

http://explore.gastateparks.org/events

#OptOutside information: https://www.rei.com/opt-outside