CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA — Boaters, don’t put your powerboats up for winter yet! Instead, plan to decorate them and participate in the James River Advisory Council’s 25th Annual Parade of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 9, 6-9 p.m.
JRAC is seeking 25 boats for this special anniversary year to make this parade the most memorable yet! This is a great year to become involved because boaters will be competing for $500 in cash prizes. Start working on your boat’s theme and register today at https://jrac-va.org/signatureevents/annual-parade-of-lights/. It’s also a great opportunity for businesses and corporations to “show their colors” with decorations that highlight who they are and what they do. Sponsors for the event also are being sought at various levels. Contributions are tax deductible.
This festive parade marks the beginning of the holiday season and has become a tradition for many families in the region. More than 10,000 people gathered last year at viewing sites along the James River to see the boats, and enjoy the parade and other holiday entertainment.
The Richmond region viewing sites include Libby Hill Park, Osborne Park and Boat Landing, Dutch Gap Boat Landing and Henricus Historical Park. The parade follows a 14-mile parade route from City of Richmond to the Varina-Enon Bridge. The boats gather at 5:45 p.m. at Libby Hill Park, and there is a countdown to the illumination at 6 p.m. The parade will end at approximately 8:30 p.m. at Henricus Historical Park.
Boats will be judged and prizes awarded in four categories:
- Most original display.
- Best appearance on the water.
- Most charming display or the one with the “wow” factor.
- Best-in-show.
In addition, best novice and runner-up novice awards will be presented to the best of the first-time entries. There also will be a special award for the marina with the most participating boats.
For more information about JRAC, contact Kim Conley, executive director, at 748-1567 or visit https://jrac-va.org/.
About JRAC: The James River Advisory Council provides a forum for the diverse interests along the James River in Central Virginia and engages the public about issues and challenges facing the river. JRAC’s vision is a healthy, beautiful, economically vital and accessible James River that is cared for by a diverse and engaged community that acts on its behalf.
JRAC’s membership includes representatives from local jurisdictions, businesses and industry, civic organizations and individuals. By leading discussions about the river, and hosting regional events and programs, the council sets the tone for positive and interactive relationships among partners throughout the region.
