Thousands take in tradition of Richmond holiday lights
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The 24th Annual Grand Illumination
Thousands of people flocked to downtown Richmond to see the tree lightings, but they were outnumbered by the lights themselves.
Eva Russo / Times-Dispatch
Richmond officially entered the holiday season on Friday with the grand illumination at the James Center.
"It's a festival of hope."
Sam Shaw and his wife, Rita, came with friends to watch Richmond's 24th Annual Grand Illumination at the James Center, and he wasn't disappointed.
"I'm a big kid when it comes to Christmas," Shaw said.
Even though economic news has dampened the holidays a bit, this event reminds Shaw that "we've gone through things and we'll come out all right."
Annie Sweeney of Richmond has attended several times.
"I enjoy it," she said, "I really enjoy the crowds."
Thousands of people made the pilgrimage to watch as the buildings, the Christmas tree and finally the reindeer were illuminated. Even after the ceremonial lighting, crowds filled the sidewalks and headed toward the James Center from all directions.
This year's musical theme, "A Soulful Christmas," included performances by several groups, including the Varina High School marching band.
Will Weber and Sarah Huang, both 17 and students at Maggie Walker Governor's School, were sitting on a low wall facing the sparkling Christmas tree.
Huang has been to the event 10 times, but this was Weber's first trip.
"Hot chocolate and cotton candy are part of the tradition," she said, but this year it was a hot dog smothered in catsup.
Vendors provided all the cuisine of the season: hot chocolate, cotton candy, cheese fries, funnel cakes and chili dogs.
People held funnel cakes in their hands and children on their shoulders. A small dog wearing a flashing Christmas-light sweater walked calmly among the spectators.
"It's awesome," Weber said, "I didn't expect this many lights."
Nearby, Wendy Prescott of Henrico County sat with her two children, Lauren, 6, and Jackson, 3, taking in the view of the Omni Hotel and the Christmas Tree.
"They really liked watching the Christmas tree," Prescott said.
"And all the things that lit up around the tree," Lauren said.
Sam Shaw stood with his wife and friends and watched the crowds and twinkling lights.
"Yes, this is wonderful."
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