Target encourages staycations with free activities

MINNEAPOLIS Target this week touted its sponsorship of free activities at many well-known arts centers across the United States.

According to Target, it is sponsoring more than 2,200 free days at more than 100 museums, theaters and cultural institutions throughout the country including the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis and the Studio Museum in Harlem (New York).

"At Target, we want to make sure that our guests and their families have the opportunity to enjoy amazing museums and performing arts institutions year-round, no matter the cost," said Laysha Ward, president of community relations for Target. "By taking advantage of free, local events this summer, families can plan the ultimate family field trip or staycation that is fun, affordable and educational."

This isn't the first year Target has sponsored free events at cultural centers, but given the down economy, people may be more likely to take advantage of them and associate Target with staycation activities, which in turn could lead them into the stores.