L.L.Bean Encourages Everyone to Get Outside with Backyard Virtual Concert and Complimentary Outdoor Classes

With only a few weeks of summer remaining, iconic outdoor retailer L.L.Bean is encouraging everyone to reap the wellness benefits of being outside by hosting a virtual ‘backyard’ concert by Grammy Award-winning artist Andy Grammer. In addition, the company is partnering with Mastercard to offer complimentary outdoor classes through its Outdoor Discovery Program.

“Studies show that spending time outside makes you feel better, and we want to encourage families and individuals to benefit from the restorative effects of being outside by providing simple, socially-distant activities for everyone,” said Nicholas Wilkoff, Chief Marketing Officer for L.L.Bean. “With so many stressors in the world today, we hope a free, streaming concert in your backyard under the stars or the chance to learn a new outdoor activity with our skilled instructors will give people that opportunity to unplug and reap the many benefits of being outside.”

The free virtual concert by Andy Grammar will be shared around the world at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, Aug. 14. Fans can tune in via the L.L.Bean Facebook Page.

Over the following two weeks (Aug. 14-30), L.L.Bean and Mastercard will be making complimentary Outdoor Discovery Program courses available at select locations in six states, giving participants the opportunity to learn from skilled instructors in a safe environment. Those interested can register on llbean.com.

The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Program Courses, which typically cost $29.95, will be offered free of charge at select L.L.Bean locations in Maine, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, Illinois and Massachusetts from Aug. 14 to 30. These courses are a fun and easy introduction to new outdoor adventures led by experts and will be facilitated in a safe environment to protect the health and safety of all participants. Programs may include:

• Archery – Learn the proper techniques of this age-old sport to perfect your bow and arrow accuracy and precision.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Discover how easy it is to balance on top of the water by learning the basic paddleboard strokes and skills while you explore scenic lakes, coves and inlets.

• Kayaking – Explore nature and learn about the eco-system and history of the area after learning how to safely and comfortably navigate the water.

• Fly-Casting – Discover the components of a fly-rod outfit and learn foundational skills on which to build more advanced casting techniques from experienced instructors. (Maine only)

“At Mastercard, we’re committed to offering people priceless experiences and activities that not only fit this new normal, but also are engaging and meaningful to their interests,” said Cheryl Guerin, executive vice president of North America Marketing and Communications, Mastercard. “We’re thrilled to be teaming up with L.L. Bean to connect consumers to their passions through interactive outdoor adventure classes.”

To find a participating L.L.Bean location, visit llbean.com/adventure.