By Lookout Staff

December 20, 2022 -- Motorists using Downtown's public parking structures will have three free hours to do their last-minute holiday shopping.

The free parking time was doubled from 90 minutes effective Friday, December 22 to Christmas Eve on Sundy, December 24, City and Downtown officials announced this week.

Extending free parking "will offer important incentives for those visiting the area and benefit residents, local businesses and visitors alike," officials said in a statement.

On New Year's Eve, Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus (BBB) is offering free rides beginning Sunday, December 31 at 9 p.m. until Monday, January 1 at 1 a.m.

BBB is providing the following tips to make the New Years Eve outing a success:

• Plan ahead: Use our trip planner and real-time info. Not all routes have late-night service.
  
  
• Be ready: Pay your fare if you board the bus before 9 p.m.
  
  
• Be mindful: Follow these easy tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.

More information is available by contacting BBB through Santa Monica 311 or by calling (310) 451-5444. Customer Service will be open on Friday, December 29 until 4:30 p.m.