Are you done trying to grab the best deal possible on Black Friday?
A movement introduced by REI last year called #optoutside generated a lot of recognition for closing their doors and encouraging everyone to look at alternatives to shopping, focusing more on spending time outside enjoying nature and working off all that turkey eaten the day before.
This stirred Minnesota to grant free access to all 75 state parks last year, and they will do it again this year. Find a park near you along with some events that some parks are holding on Black Friday.
Here are some ideas around the Twin Cities to take a look at for your family to enjoy instead of shopping:
Three Rivers Park District has a couple of events that their parks are holding. Drop in at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park to participate in their Holiday Gift Exchange. Bring in a gently used toy for an even exchange. For more information on the event, go here.
Richardson Nature Center holds free family fun days where you can learn about a new topic. For more information. go here.
For those of you who like skiing or if you are looking to try it out for the first time with your kids, Lutsen Mountains entrance is free on Friday, November 25.
Paul Bunyan Adventure is being hosted by Dakota County Parks and features activities from lumberjack caching, an ox roundup for the little ones, and for older kids who like riddles, a hunt for Paul Bunyan himself.
From 10-11:30am on Black Friday, Dodge Nature Center in Saint Paul is planning a day of hiking and learning about wildlife in the area. Pre-registration is encouraged and cost is $5 per family. For more more information, go here.
Gear Running Store is hosting their 2nd annual Friday Free run around Lake Harriet. Start out at the store and choose a 1.5 mile, 3 mile, or 4.5 mile route to enjoy. First 200 people get a free RUN MSP mug and the store will have coffee and treats after you are done.
Holidazzle is back! Starting Friday evening after Thanksgiving, Loring Park will be full of events for the whole family. They will have a free skating rink, and you can always stay out to enjoy a movie. Check out the schedule for Friday here.
