Exciting New Outdoor Experience Coming to College Station
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The energy in College Station was palpable Thursday night as the doors of the brand new REI store swung open for a special Halloween preview party. The event not only marked a sneak peek of the new location, but it also celebrated the local community and the great outdoors with a night filled with costumes, live music, and some mouthwatering craft brews.
A Night of Fun and Community Spirit
Local outdoor enthusiasts, community partners, and REI staff gathered to kick off the festivities at the University Park Plaza. With Halloween just around the corner, guests were encouraged to don their best costumes, leading to a spirited “fashion show” where prizes were awarded for the most creative outfits. The array of costumes added a fun and festive vibe, creating a lively atmosphere that had everyone smiling.
While mingling, guests enjoyed local craft beer brewed by Blackwater Draw Brewing Co., alongside refreshing non-alcoholic options from Athletic Brewing. The culinary delights of the evening were provided by Buppy’s Catering, ensuring that everyone had plenty to munch on while they explored the new store. In the spirit of giving back, attendees also had the chance to donate $10 to the Audubon Society in exchange for a limited-edition stainless-steel pint. The proceeds from this donation went towards supporting this vital conservation organization.
Music and Anticipation in the Air
The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by live music from the Karl Rehn Band, who lent their talents to an evening filled with jazz, blues, and rock vibes. As the band played, guests explored the nearly 22,000 square-foot store, which featured everything from camping gear to essentials for winter sports enthusiasts. There was an undeniable buzz in the air as attendees eagerly anticipated the official grand opening.
Excitement for the Grand Opening
Store managers expressed their excitement to welcome REI’s outdoor experience into the College Station community. Alexandra Gaisbauer, the store manager, shared her enthusiasm during the event. “At REI, we really like to go big with our store openings. So, we are actually opening our 11th store here in Texas, which is really exciting. Tonight is community night, so it’s a chance for us to really make some meaningful connections with our community partners,” she said.
The new College Station location promises to be more than just a retail space; it will be a full-service hub offering expert guidance and gear for outdoor adventures. Shoppers will also find a bike shop offering year-round maintenance and repair services, making it a valuable resource for local cycling enthusiasts.
Mark Your Calendars!
For those eager to check it out, the store will officially open its doors to the public on Friday at 10 a.m. A weekend full of special activities is planned to celebrate the arrival of this outdoor retail giant in the community. So, gather your family and friends and get ready to explore all that REI College Station has to offer!
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting to explore the outdoors, the new REI is set to provide a welcoming space for all. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of this exciting new chapter in College Station’s outdoor scene!