Downtown shoppers in Kamloops will enjoy free on-street parking on weekends this holiday season, as City Council approved a proposal to support local businesses. The initiative will run from November 20 to December 20, 2025, coinciding with major downtown events like the Christmas Market and Santa Claus Parade.
A BIA spokesperson presented the proposal to Council, explaining that the plan aims to encourage early holiday shopping and boost economic activity in the downtown core. “This initiative captures the peak of holiday shopping when residents frequently visit downtown businesses,” the spokesperson said. “By December 20, most shopping is typically complete, but early shoppers can support local businesses and enjoy the festive events.”
The plan adds five Saturdays of free on-street parking to complement Sundays, which are already free. Downtown parkades will also remain free on both Saturdays and Sundays during this period. The City estimates the cost of the five Saturdays to be approximately $56,850, which will be reflected in the 2025–2029 Financial Plan.
During the Council discussion, several members highlighted the benefits for downtown businesses, especially following the disruptions caused by recent infrastructure upgrades. Councillor Sarai noted that offering free parking earlier in the season could help businesses recoup revenue lost due to construction, saying, “If our downtown is struggling, that means our community is struggling, and we don’t want our downtown to be struggling.”
Councillor Middleton raised the possibility of extending free parking to the Saturday after Boxing Day, noting it could help businesses capitalize on post-Christmas sales. The BIA spokesperson clarified that their request focused on the November 20–December 20 window to align with the Christmas Market and Santa Claus Parade, but added that extending the initiative could be explored for future years. Council ultimately approved the motion as presented, with the amendment extending the initiative to December 27, 2025, passing with majority support.
Council also confirmed that parking time limits will remain in effect, ensuring spaces are available for multiple visitors throughout the day. The KCBIA will promote free parking through holiday marketing campaigns, including the Holiday Shop Hop and other shop-local initiatives.
This move continues a tradition of offering free downtown parking during the holiday season, which has been implemented in previous years. The initiative is expected to increase downtown traffic, encourage residents to shop locally, and support small businesses during one of the busiest times of the year.
