Park for free and shop with glee in Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie

Here’s a little something extra to be cheerful about: Visitors to Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie will soon enjoy free parking on weekday afternoons during most of December.

Recognizing the holiday season is among the most expensive times of year for some residents, the City of St. Catharines is offering free afternoon parking at more than 1,000 City parking spots in Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie parking locations from Monday, Dec. 9 to Friday, Dec. 27. Visitors can park for up to three hours free from noon to 6 p.m. at all City pay-and-display machines, HONK Mobile zones and City of St. Catharines hourly surface parking lots as well as the Ontario Street Parking Garage.

Free Parking for Holiday Shopping and Events

Whether you’re heading out for holiday shopping, dining with friends, or taking in the sights of the Let It Glow light displays, the City of St. Catharines offers convenient parking within a few minutes' walk of top attractions. Highlights include:

• Parking in Downtown St. Catharines near the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.
• Port Dalhousie parking near the Let It Glow - A Celebration of Light displays at Rennie Park.

Save on Parking While You Celebrate

Free weekday afternoon parking will help residents feel more at ease during the run-up to the holidays by pairing savings on parking fees with ample time for shopping, errands and celebrating with family and friends in Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie.

Important Parking Details

Visitors taking advantage of free afternoon parking are still subject to the City’s three-hour time limit.

Long-term parking is available at the City’s Garden Park / Carlisle Street Parking Garage. However, regular rates apply.

Regular paid parking rates for all City pay-and-display machines, HONK Mobile zones and City-owned hourly surface parking lots and parking garages resumes Monday, December 30.

Parking at City lots, garages and parking spots is always free after hours (from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m.) except when special event parking is in effect.

Learn more about paid parking near me options in St. Catharines.