UPDATE: The East Bay Regional Park District has just announced that all 73 regional parks will be open and free to the public this November 24, 2023, as part of the annual “Green Friday” initiative. In a bid to promote a healthier alternative to Black Friday shopping, the parks will waive all entrance fees, including parking, boat launching, and fishing access.
Jessica Sloan, Volunteer Program Supervisor at East Bay Parks, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating,
“Green Friday is a healthy and meaningful way to spend the day after Thanksgiving. It’s a chance to enjoy time with family and friends in the outdoors or give back by participating in one of our volunteer clean-up projects.”
Starting at 9 a.m., visitors can participate in various activities designed to celebrate the natural beauty of the region. Key events include:
– **Volunteer Planting Opportunity** at Contra Loma in Antioch (registration requested)
– **Green Friday Hike Amongst the Trees** at Reinhardt Redwood in Oakland
– **Green Friday Hike** at Black Diamond Mines in Antioch
– **Green Friday Gratitude Hike** at Sunol Wilderness in Sunol
– **Green Friday Hike** at Coyote Hills in Fremont at 10:30 a.m.
This initiative not only provides a chance for families to bond outdoors but also encourages community involvement through volunteer efforts. It’s an excellent opportunity for locals to work off their Thanksgiving feasts while enjoying the scenic beauty of the East Bay.
While entrance fees are waived, authorities remind visitors that fees for state fishing licenses, watercraft inspections, and certain concessionaires, such as the Tilden Merry-Go-Round, will still apply.
For more information on activities and registration, visit www.ebparks.org/green-friday.
Don’t miss out on this chance to reconnect with nature and the community this Green Friday!
