Columbia Offers Free Parking for Thanksgiving Weekend Celebrations

Columbia Celebrates Thanksgiving with Free Parking Bonanza!

Hey there, Columbia residents! As we dive into the Thanksgiving holiday, there’s plenty to be thankful for this year, especially when it comes to parking in our beautiful downtown area. If you’ve ever wrestled with the thought of finding parking while shopping or dining downtown, you’ll be excited to hear that the city’s Parking Services department is making your life a tad easier and a whole lot cheaper this Thanksgiving weekend!

Free Parking Begins!

Starting Wednesday, November 27, visitors to downtown Columbia can start enjoying complimentary on-street parking. Make sure to note that the regular enforcing times are still in place until later that afternoon—on-street meters will be free after 6 p.m., and parking deck facilities will stop collecting fees at 5 p.m.. So, bring your friends and family down for some local shopping or a relaxing meal!

But wait, it gets better! From Thursday, November 28, all the way until Saturday, November 30, those on-street parking meters will be free all citywide! That’s right—no coins necessary! Just remember, the Five Points area is an exception, where timed parking will still be enforced during regular hours—11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Parking Decks Joining the Party!

Excited about a late-night outing? Columbia has got you covered! On Thanksgiving Eve, the gates at Lincoln, Park, Lady, and Sumter street parking decks will rise at 5 p.m. Wednesday evening, allowing for free parking throughout the night and all day Thursday through Saturday. What a way to enjoy those holiday celebrations without worrying about parking fees!”

Heads up for night owls! The gates will drop back down for regular operations at 2 a.m. on Sunday. And if you’re planning to check out the vibe in Five Points, that parking deck at 221 Devine Street is also joining in on the fun, with free parking all day Friday and Saturday.

Fog and Warm Weather Approaching!

While you’re out and about enjoying the free parking, don’t forget to dress accordingly. According to the latest weather forecast, we’re looking at a mix of partly to mostly cloudy skies with temperatures reaching a comfy 65°F during the day. There may be some patchy fog in the morning, so if you’re an early bird, you might want to give yourself a little extra time on the road.

As night falls, temperatures are expected to cool off to around 52°F. With gentle winds from the south at about 5 to 10 mph, it sounds like the perfect weather to stroll around the downtown area, soak in the holiday spirit, and maybe grab a hot cider or two!

Share the Love!

As the season of giving is upon us, don’t forget to share the love! Spread the word about the free parking all around to your friends and family, because what’s more fun than enjoying time together without the hassle of parking fees? Let’s make this Thanksgiving holiday a memorable one for everyone in Columbia!

So grab your shopping bags, gather your loved ones, and enjoy all that downtown Columbia has to offer this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving to all!