Outdoor retailer REI is introducing itself to the Chattanooga market with a weekend of free outdoor events around town Saturday and Sunday.
The retailer is sponsoring a “Free Play Day Weekend” to give visitors and locals an opportunity to enjoy events around town, according to a release from the city’s department of transportation. The event includes free use of Bike Chattanooga’s bike share system, free entry and crash pad rentals at Stone Fort bouldering area, 1-hour free paddleboard rentals at L2, yoga at Wildflower Tea Shop and a music and beer festival at Crabtree Farms.
“We’re thrilled to partner with local nonprofits and businesses to offer outdoor experiences for all skill levels to the community throughout Free Play Day Weekend,” according to REI market coordinator Haley Swank.
The retailer is holding the grand opening for its first Chattanooga location May 16-18 and will hold outdoor school classes in June for camping, cycling, climbing, navigation, paddling and more.
The weekend festivities will be REI’s first public events in the city. Bike share users will receive complimentary access passes for trips 60 minutes or less Saturday and Sunday.