The holidays are almost upon us and soon we'll be turning on the holiday lights for the First City Lights Festival, immediately following the Winterfest Elf Parade on Friday, Nov. 23. Our historic streets are at their most beautiful under the glow of twinkling lights, and downtown shops, restaurants, galleries, bars and attractions are welcoming holiday shoppers with open arms. 

If you need further incentive, from Dec. 17-25 you can park for free at any DIB-managed on-street parking space, when the Downtown Parking Ambassadors will transform into holiday elves and help you carry large purchases to your car. Just call the "Elf Line": (850) 434-5371.

"We have more than 150 shops and galleries in Downtown Pensacola bursting with an eclectic mix of gifts for everyone on your list," said Downtown Improvement Board executive director Lissa Dees. "And from Dec. 17-25 we’re spreading cheer with free parking!"

From half a million white lights to Santa and his elves to Winterfest trolley and train rides, you'll find a never-ending list of things to enjoy with friends and family once everyone is checked off your gift list. Check the downtown holiday calendar of events for a complete list of downtown happenings, then head downtown and park for free while you shop, dine and play.

Funded in part by grants from the City of Pensacola and Visit Pensacola, the dazzling lights have become a popular attraction for visitors and residents alike. Pensacola’s Downtown Improvement Board (DIB) conceived the idea of lighting up the district, then coordinating, supporting and branding all of the district’s diverse holiday events synchronously.