Rapid City, South Dakota – In a bid to get the community into the holiday spirit, the City of Rapid City has once again announced free parking at downtown meters throughout the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and on select Saturdays leading up to Christmas.
The free parking will be available from Thursday, November 23 to Sunday, November 26 during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Additionally, there will be free parking on December 2, 9, 16, and 23, which are Saturdays falling between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
“This initiative is a fantastic way to start the holiday season on a positive note,” said Vicki Fisher, the Community Development Director. “Downtown Rapid City has a multitude of holiday events that offer great opportunities for families and friends to spend quality time together, whether it’s shopping, enjoying a meal, or watching a movie.”
While free parking is being offered, the City officials want to remind the public that there will be parking restrictions in the downtown area during the Festival of Lights Parade. On Saturday, November 25, there will be no parking allowed after 4:30 p.m. along the parade route, which stretches along Main Street from East Boulevard to Seventh Street, and St. Joseph Street from Seventh Street to East Boulevard.
The City also provided updates on ongoing construction projects. The St. Joseph Street construction project will be suspended for the winter season, meaning no traffic lane or parking restrictions along St. Joseph Street during the holiday season. The repairs on the Fifth Street crossing by the Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad are expected to be completed by November 20, with traffic restrictions lifted by that date. Additionally, construction in the downtown parking structure is expected to be finalized, allowing access to both stairwells by Thanksgiving.
“We encourage everyone to take advantage of the free parking and engage in the holiday festivities,” said Anna Gilligan, the City Parking Operations Manager. “This year, with the extended holiday period, there’s ample opportunity to enjoy the Holiday Celebration and Winter Market, as well as the 25th annual Festival of Lights Parade.”
The Holiday Celebration and Winter Market in Main Street Square will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, November 25. The event will feature vendors, various activities, and a special performance from the Black Hills Figure Skating Club. The tree lighting ceremony, led by Mayor Jason Salamun, will take place at 4:56 p.m., followed by the Festival of Lights Parade at 6 p.m.
FAQ:
Q: When will the free parking be available during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend?
A: The free parking will be available from Thursday, November 23 to Sunday, November 26.
Q: Are there any parking restrictions during the Festival of Lights Parade?
A: Yes, no parking will be allowed along the parade route after 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 25.
Q: Are there any ongoing construction projects that may affect parking?
A: The St. Joseph Street construction project is suspended for the winter season, and repairs on the Fifth Street crossing are expected to be completed by November 20. Construction in the downtown parking structure is also expected to be finalized before Thanksgiving.
Q: What is happening at the Holiday Celebration and Winter Market?
A: The Holiday Celebration and Winter Market will feature vendors, various activities, and a performance from the Black Hills Figure Skating Club. The tree lighting ceremony and the 25th annual Festival of Lights Parade will also take place on the same day.
