PROVINCETOWN – From Provincetown Police: With Carnival taking place on Thursday, August 20, 2026, residents and visitors should be aware of several important parking, traffic, and safety changes. Please plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling through Provincetown.
NO PARKING – COMMERCIAL STREET
There will be NO PARKING on Commercial Street from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from the split in the far East End to Franklin Street in the West End. Vehicles must be removed from this area prior to 9:00 a.m.
DRONE NO-FLY ZONE
For the safety of everyone attending Carnival and the parade, drones are not permitted in the area of Commercial Street from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20. Please keep all recreational and personal drones grounded during this time.
NO PUBLIC CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL Please remember that public consumption of alcohol is not permitted.
Carnival is a celebration for our entire community, and we ask everyone to enjoy the day responsibly. Let’s be responsible, respectful to each other, and help keep Carnival safe and enjoyable for everyone.
MacMillan Pier Parking Lot
Vehicles will not be permitted to exit the MacMillan Pier Lot between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. during the Carnival Parade. Please plan accordingly.
Jerome Smith Parking Lot
The Jerome Smith Lot will close at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, and will reopen on Friday, August 21.
26 Shank Painter Road / Browne Street Parking Lot
The Browne Street Lot will have a $35 flat parking rate for the entire day on Thursday, August 20.
Town Offices
Town Offices will close at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, and will reopen for regular hours on Friday, August 21.
Provincetown Public Library
The Provincetown Public Library will be closed all day Thursday, August 20, and will reopen for regular hours on Friday, August 21.
Carnival is one of Provincetown’s busiest and most exciting days of the year. Please plan ahead, be patient, follow posted parking restrictions and traffic directions, and use extra caution around pedestrians and cyclists.
The Provincetown Police Department appreciates everyone’s cooperation as we work together to make Carnival a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable celebration for our residents, visitors, and community.
Have fun, celebrate responsibly, look out for one another, and enjoy Carnival.
