NASHVILLE (AP) — Nashville shoppers braving the crowds on Black Friday will be able to save some money by leaving their cars at home.

The transportation authorities of Nashville and Middle Tennessee are offering free rides on all buses and the Music City Star train on the day after Thanksgiving, which is the traditional start to the holiday shopping season.

Last year's bus ridership on Black Friday set a weekday record, with routes to and from shopping malls seeing the largest number of riders.

Metro Transit Authority Chairman Jeff Yarbro says the unlimited free service is a way to introduce public transportation to new riders and to reward loyal customers.

The free rides include express bus services operating in Murfreesboro, Clarksville, Springfield, Franklin, Hendersonville, Thompson's Station and Spring Hill.