For a lot of people, one of the biggest deterrents to coming downtown to shop is the parking.  Officials are hoping to take that worry away for a couple of days.

There are so many great places to shop for gifts in downtown Buffalo.  From Elmwood Village to Hertel Avenue, with small businesses everywhere, you're sure to get a unique gift at one of the many shops and restaurants.  But if paying for parking isn't something that you'd like to add to your Christmas budget, there's good news.

The city of Buffalo is offering free parking

Mayor Byron W. Brown and City Council President Darius Pridgen have announced that they will be suspending payments at the meters in Buffalo now through Monday for Christmas (12/25).  They're hoping that it will encourage you to come out and support the small businesses with holiday shopping, and maybe grab a bite to eat or have something to drink at one of the many restaurants on your day out.

“By suspending parking enforcement at metered on-street spots in Buffalo through Christmas Day, we want to encourage City residents and visitors to purchase holiday gifts in Buffalo’s great retail stores – both big and small - and to enjoy dining in our many great and diverse restaurants. Happy holidays to all!” - Mayor Byron Brown

Where are the best places to shop in Buffalo?

There are a ton of great places to shop.  They've identified 24 shopping districts that you can visit and there's a new one popping up around the West Side Bazaar at 1432 Niagara Street.

There will also be free parking on New Year's Eve

Have you ever wanted to come downtown to experience the ball drop but didn't want to deal with the parking hassle there?  They will also be offering free parking on New Year's Eve at select ramps and parking areas in Buffalo.  You'll find those spots in the vicinity of Roosevelt Plaza, at the Mohawk Ramp and Fernbach Ramp - courtesy of Mayor Byron W. Brown, The Buffalo Board of Parking and Buffalo Civic Auto Ramps.  Click here for directions to those ramps.

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