DEL MAR — There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but once again there will be free parking in downtown Del Mar during the holiday season.
The seaside city some say would ticket Santa is bagging its meters and meter maids for 14 days, twice as many as when the program began three years ago and one more than in 2009.
“Once again we can dispel the myth that Del Mar also enforces parking during the holidays,” Jen Grove, executive director for Del Mar Village Association, said.
Although the city will lose some money, City Manager Karen Brust described it as “a small amount.”
“However, we gain it with the increased revenue from the sales,” she said.
“We also gain it in reputation,” added Mayor Richard Earnest.
Enforcement-free days will be every Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 20 through Dec. 19, as well as on Dec. 24, Dec. 25, Dec. 31, and Jan. 1. Visitors may park without fear of a fine under L’Auberge Del Mar, on 15th Street and along Camino del Mar from 15th to Fourth Street.
The program is one of several holiday promotions sponsored by DMVA in conjunction with the city. Other events include visits from Santa Claus, a fee concert and, on Dec. 5 beginning at noon, a holiday wonderland featuring arts and crafts, music, performers, restaurant tastes, a gift bazaar and the annual community tree lighting.
Visit www.delmarmain street.com for more information on other activities.
Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to check all signage as parking will continue to be enforced in the beach area and restricted zones.
“This makes for a very festive atmosphere in downtown Del Mar,” Councilwoman Crystal Crawford said.
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