Outdoor equipment and clothing retailer REI is the first tenant to open in Park Village, a new commercial development at the intersection of Southlake Boulevard and Carroll Avenue.



To celebrate the grand opening, REI has a number of scheduled activities, events and giveaways from Friday to Sunday.



Dia Hodnett, Southlake store manager, who has been with the company for five years, said attendees can expect the grand opening weekend to be different than what they are use to.



"It's going to be a big celebration because we are celebrating the beginning of many phenomenal experiences that will happen here at our Southlake store," she said. "They can expect a big warm welcome from us. And for those first time customers, we want them to know that we take a great deal of pride in sharing their first experience. They should also think of this store as their home because it is their store and we can't help but be excited about that."



The first 200 people (ages 12 and older) who visit the store each day this weekend will receive a limited-edition CamelBak water bottle with an REI gift card inside ranging from $10 to $100. Guest will also have a chance to win products and sweepstake packages. Complimentary breakfast service begins one hour before the store opens.



Doors open at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. on Sunday.



Hodnett said customers can also expect to find employees that are deeply engaged and passionate about REI's products.



"While we are a specialty retailer that offers great gear, we are all about the experience for our customers," she said. "Our well trained sales associates not only provide information to our customers but they are also a part of the planning and inspiration for their outdoor experiences. So we are just as excited as they are about their experience."



To help inspire and educate its members, REI offers a variety of in-store classes and presentations, and outdoor outings in the Dallas area throughout the year, including basic bike maintenance and outdoor photography. Event and registration information is available at www.rei.com/southlake.



REI Southlake store manager Dia Hodnett, said not only did the company hire most of the employees from the surrounding area, it is also donating and investing in local organizations by building trails, restoring local habitats and donating supplies.



Locally, REI granted $80,000 in 2014 to nonprofits helping to maintain outdoor places in the Dallas area. Grantees include the Bob Jones Nature Center, DORBA (Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association) and Keep Grapevine Beautiful.



On Oct. 18, REI Southlake employees also volunteered with Keep Grapevine Beautiful and DORBA to maintain Katie's Woods Park.



REI also held a VIP community reception on Nov. 6 where local REI members, city officials, outdoor recreation leaders and organizations gathered to celebrate the opening of the store.