City Offers Free Parking on 'Black Friday'

Alexandria is helping shoppers save a bit of green on Black Friday, Nov. 25, one of the biggest shopping days of the year by offering free parking at parking meters and in all city-owned garages and parking lots.

These city-owned garages and lots are opening early and will offer free parking for patrons:

, 108 North Fairfax St., Open 6 a.m. Friday – 6 a.m. Saturday
, 111 South Pitt St., 6 a.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Thompson’s Alley Garage, 10 Thompson’s Alley, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
North Union Street Garage, 220 North Union St., 6 a.m. – 2:30 a.m.
, 112 South Henry St., 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cameron/St. Asaph Street Lot, 210 North St. Asaph St., 6 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Dozens of Alexandria’s independently owned shops are offering deep discounts with early and extended hours on Black Friday.

The city's annual tree lighting ceremony begins at 7 p.m. on Market Square. As the official kick-off to the holiday season in Alexandria, there will be a performance from Santa’s Frosty Follies, a visit from Santa Claus and community caroling.

Then, visit Santa throughout the season in Old Town. Starting the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, Santa will be available for photos every Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 18 at 210 South Union Street. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Special parade day schedule is 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3.