Richmond's Grand Illumination Events

This time of year brings out many who love to light the night. Although most of us immediately think of more personal home displays, just take a night to travel around your local city. Look at the beautiful light displays your local city businesses have decided to share. Unfortunately this year we missed the opening event that occurs every year about this time; in Richmond, Virginia; called 'Grand Illumination'. This event showcases the cityscape in all of its lighted glory along with plenty holiday celebrations to make cool nights warm and fuzzy.

James Center Grand Illumination is located between 9^th and 12^th street on East Cary Street. There are 15 buildings in the downtown area of Richmond that have lights displayed along with lighted reindeer. This event started November 30^, 2007 and will continue until January 1, 2008.

My children and I visited this area of Richmond so I could bring you some photos of the lights. The downtown area looks amazing, but I am hoping during the River Parade of Lights coming this weekend, we will get to see so much more! My daughter Chels stated; "Mom, they are so pretty, can I please help take the pictures."

On December 8, 2007 the 15^th Annual James River Parade of Lights will be a spectacular sight to see. According to the James River Advisory Council, this parade is best view from Libby Hill Park which is located at the corner of 28^th and East Franklin streets. The fun begins at 4:30 p.m. I am hoping to be able to take my children to this fun event because there will be boats decorated with lights. They will be passing by at 6 p.m. For more information call 804-717-6681.

We are definitely going to try to get to this event. If I can run to the store and pick me up a new tripod (my son decided to use mine as a pretend gun), then I will be able to get some amazing shots without so much camera shake.

If you would like to see a historical building decorated to the nines; go visit The Maggie Walker House; located at 110 ½ East Leigh Street. Free admission Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You may call 804-771-2017 for further information.