Celebrate a Colonial Christmas During Park’s 400th Commemoration
The 18th Annual James River Parade of Lights, sponsored by the regional James River Advisory Council, will be held on the evening of Saturday, Dec.11. A treasured Richmond tradition, thousands of residents look forward to viewing the procession of boats decorated with holiday lights each year. Spectators will be able to enjoy the parade and experience a colonial Christmas presented by historical interpreters at Henricus Historical Park free-of-charge.
The Parade of Lights begins in Richmond and travels along the James River through Henrico and Chesterfield counties. Henricus Historical Park is the final official viewing site on the parade route. Decorated boats will be judged in a number of categories including most original display, best appearance on the water, best overall lighting and others. Judges include community leaders and local celebrities. This year’s honorary grand marshal is Nutzy the Flying Squirrel.
Prior to the parade, the public is encouraged to experience a colonial Christmas at Henricus Historical Park. Visitors may tour the re-created English settlement and speak with settlers about their lives and holidays in the 17th century. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served in the re-created tavern called The Ordinary.
The museum store at Henricus is currently stocked with holiday gifts for people of all ages. Products include handmade American Indian and colonial crafts, jewelry, historical literature, T-shirts and a variety of items for children. Prices range from budget-friendly to high-end. Gift certificates and Patron gift club memberships also make unique holiday presents.
“We welcome the community to experience how the Christmas tradition began in America at Henricus Historical Park,” said Charles Lewis Grant, acting executive director. “Guests are encouraged to visit now and come back for all of our 400th commemoration events in 2011.”
Holiday colonial activities will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the parade viewing scheduled for 7:45-8 p.m. All park activities on Dec. 11 are free-of-charge. Henricus Historical Park is located on 32 acres along the scenic and historic James River and is surrounded by the 810-acre Dutch Gap Conservation Area. For more information, call 804-748-1613 or visit www.henricus.org
