The Christmas tradition of free parking in downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake returns this December.

Shoppers heading down to Old Town for the holiday season won’t have to worry about dishing out cash or credit or using the Honk app after councillors unanimously voted in favour of free parking for the entire month during Monday's committee of the whole meeting.

Coun. Erwin Wiens noted the municipality has permitted free parking every December for several years – but councillors have to debate and approve it every year.

He suggested the town consider grandfathering the practice and making it a permanent staple of town policy.

Coun. Allan Bisback disagreed, saying any decision that affects finances needs to be reviewed annually. Council rejected Wiens's idea and only approved free parking for the month.

The gratis parking at all meters and lots for the entire downtown area commences Dec. 1.