The first day of June marked several exciting announcements for the outdoors and families across the country.

At Red Rock Canyon in Nevada, First Lady Michelle Obama promoted Let's Move Outside!, recognizing the outdoors as an easy and fun way for children to get at least 60 minutes of active play each day. As part of her broader campaign to combat childhood obesity, the site provides ideas on where to go and what to do, and urges families to reconnect with the Great Outdoors.

Together with our coalition partners, we are excited to announce the formation of Outdoor Alliance for Kids. REI has joined with the YMCA of the USA, Sierra Club, National Wildlife Federation, Izaak Walton League of America, The Outdoor Foundation, National Recreation and Park Association and the Children & Nature Network in working to promote policies, resources and programs designed to help more families be active in nature.

If you are looking for ways to connect your family with the outdoors, consider one of these upcoming events:

• REI’s Family Adventure Program – June 1 through August 28
• National Trails Day® – June 5
• National Parks Fee-Free Weekends – June 5 and 6, August 14 and 15, September 25, November 11
• National Get Outdoors Day – June 12
• Outdoor Nation – June 19 and 20
• Great American Backyard Campout – June 26
• Park and Recreation Month – July
• World’s Largest Campfire – July 14

What outdoor events are you planning on attending with your family this summer?