The James River Advisory Council bills itself  “a forum for the diverse interests along the James River in Central Virginia.” For years part of its mission has been to communicate “with public officials about issues and challenges facing the river and its resources. JRAC’s vision is to unite the community by supporting and promoting the James River as a common resource and preserving its health, beauty, heritage, economic vitality and recreational value.”

Credit: Richmond.com

To those ends, the JRAC does three things every year three that I think have a huge impact on those of us that love the James River (more, actually, but these three I think are the most effective): 1) It prints and distributes the James River Days brochure, with dozens of listings of river-related events and things to do. 2) It organizes a huge June River cleanup. 3) It puts on the James River Parade of Lights.

This year the 21^st annual Parade of Lights will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14^th, starting at 6 p.m. The parade, open to any motor boat owner provider they register in advance, will cruise from above Rockett’s Landing in Richmond through Henrico to Henricus Historical Park in Chesterfield Co. There will be entertainment, food and activities at the viewing sites in Richmond, Henrico and Chesterfield. The event is free and open to the public.