Boats decorated with thousands of lights will cruise the James between Richmond and Henrico and Chesterfield for the 20th Annual James River Parade of Lights, sponsored by the regional James River Advisory Council.

This year Sir Thomas Dale, portrayed by Dennis Strawderman, will be the parade Honorary Grand Marshal. Ron Blackburn and Megan Strawderman will be aboard the boat as well. It will be hard to beat the parade’s previous Grand Marshals that have included such notables as the Nutzy the Flying Squirrel.

Multiple viewing sites, several of which provide additional entertainment, make it easy for people throughout the region to view this spectacular holiday tradition on the James. Spectators will be able to enjoy the parade and experience a colonial Christmas presented by historical interpreters at Henricus Historical Park. Colonial Christmas activities begin at 6:00 p.m. with viewing of the boat parade from 7:30-8 p.m. The event begins December 8, 2012 Saturday. For more information visit henricus.org