Minnesota’s Black Friday Deal: Free Pass to State Parks

ST. PAUL (AP) - Black Friday fever is spreading to Minnesota state parks.

The state will offer free entry to all 76 state parks and recreation areas on Nov. 27, the day after Thanksgiving. A daily permit to a park generally costs $5.

Lt. Gov. Tina Smith announced the state's own Black Friday deal on Friday from Fort Snelling State Park. Smith says the state is trying to promote the outdoors and family time on a day dominated by trips to malls and shopping centers.

Retailers are also making preparations for the biggest shopping day of the year. Outdoor retailer REI is also encouraging its employees to head outdoors, but by keeping its doors closed on Black Friday.