REI Plans 'Opt Outside' Community Cleanups On Black Friday

SEATTLE, WA — For the last five years, REI has closed its doors on Black Friday, forgoing big holiday sales and encouraging shoppers to explore the outdoors instead. The Kent-based retailer's popular #OptOutside campaign has generated millions of social media posts since it began in 2015. This year, the store is going one step further, asking their customers "Opt to Act" and get their hands dirty by cleaning up their communities.

More than 100 cleanup events are scheduled nationwide in upcoming weeks, including several on Saturday, November 23 and many more on Black Friday (November 29). A cleanup at Seattle's Discovery Park is planned for Saturday, November 30. Those living in towns without scheduled events are encouraged to grab some friends and organize a DIY cleanup crew.

According to REI, the Thanksgiving week events are just the beginning of a 52-week "action plan," encouraging shoppers to cut down on waste and consider environmental impact all year. December's plan includes opting out of junk mail, forgoing traditional wrapping paper, and carrying reusable shopping bags.

REI's Seattle flagship store will celebrate cleanup volunteers at a free reception, with food and drinks, December 4th.

Cleanup Events In Western Washington:

Mukilteo
Japanese Gulch Dog Park Trailhead
Friday, November 29
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Kenmore
St. Edwards State Park
Friday, November 29
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Seattle
Discovery Park
Saturday, November 30
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Find a complete list of OptOutside cleanup events nationwide.
Read more on REI's 52-week 'Opt to Act' plan.