NORFOLK, Va. — Thousands were expected to celebrate the arrival of the holidays in Downtown Norfolk Saturday night.
The city's 38th Grand Illumination began with a parade at 7 p.m. and the annual lighting of the skyline.
The popular parade weaves through several downtown streets and features lighted floats, local marching bands and the star of the event: Santa Claus.
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This year's theme is "Retro Wonderland."
The city of Norfolk recommends that people attending the parade arrive around two hours early to claim their spots because of how busy it's expected to get. The 2-mile route starts on Main Street and moves west before turns onto Granby Street, Freemason Street and Boush Street before wrapping up on Waterside Drive.
Parking in most garages will be $5, with $3 Early Bird rates available in many garages until 5 p.m. Visitors are can also take Hampton Roads Transit's The Tide light rail and Elizabeth River Ferry to the parade.
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The parade will also be streamed live on the Downtown Norfolk website.
The Grand Illumination Parade is always held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Click HERE for a list of road closures and detours for the event.
