Jingle All the Way

Thursday, December 10, 2009

This weekend, Rocketts Landing launches our newest holiday festival, Jingle on the James. Co-presented by One smART Gallery, the inaugural festival is the first (and only) holiday event to take place on the James River — and will turn the community into an eclectic art village as well as a venue for holiday-themed entertainment. Free and open to the public.

To help you prepare, here’s a bit of what’s in store:

Virginia Artists in Rocketts “Art Village”
Get to know our local artists when Sky Line and 210 Rock buildings, as well as open, street-level homes and storefronts temporarily convert into an art village showcasing more than 100 Virginia artists. With paintings, hand-made jewelry, handcrafted furniture and more, festival attendees can purchase one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and meet the artists, including Ed Trask, Shaun Irving, Annie Ward Love, Jude Schlotzhauer and Andrew Pitts.

James River Parade of Lights
In its 17th twinkling year on the river, the Parade of Lights is a unique display of decorated vessels that runs from Richmond to Henricus Historical Park in Chesterfield County. Boaters compete for prizes in categories such as best boater-chosen theme, originality, appearance and charm. Spectators can enjoy fantastic views of the parade from the banks of Rocketts Landing. Keep an eye out for the palm tree.

James River Ringers Bell Choir and Salvation Army Brass Band
What’s a holiday festival without the classic sounds of beloved holiday music? The James River Ringers will serenade festival attendees with handbell music while the Salvation Army Brass Band plays holiday favorites.

RVA HoOp LOvers
RVA HoOp LOvers is Richmond’s only troupe of hula-hoopers performing with LED-lighted hula-hoops. Their glowing performance takes place on the riverbank during the Parade of Lights and will also feature a flaming hoops show, adding an edgy twist to your holiday evening.

Brunch and Dinner at The Boathouse
Thought not normally open for Saturday brunch, The Boathouse is participating in the festivities and will open its doors on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. Sign in and browse the festival while waiting for a seat. Parties of eight or more are encouraged to make reservations.

The weather is supposed to be rather cold, so be sure to warm up with some holiday favorites like hot cocoa, apple cider and ginger cookies, available for purchase throughout each day from Espresso-A-Go-Go.

For more details, please visit our schedule of events.