RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The 8News crew headed to Kanawha Plaza on Friday to count down to the lighting of Richmond’s skyline for the holiday season.
Anchors, meteorologists and reporters alike gathered close to prepare for the fun evening ahead!
Our drone was in the air prior to the event to survey the scene before it was lit up for the first time this holiday season.
Check out photos and videos of holiday cheer and lights galore across the river city’s downtown.
Deanna Allbrittin, Natalie Kalibat and Tyler Thrasher were all smiles during the RVA Illuminates countdown. 
There is no such thing as too many green Christmas suits! 
Fun prints and fun times for John Rogers and Natalie Kalibat at RVA Illuminates. 
Matt Dinardo, Deanna Allbrittin and Eric Phillips were festive and cheery for RVA Illuminates.
The 6 p.m. light switch went off without a hitch and Richmonders are loving this bright and festive skyline, and can’t wait to emjoy the lights for the rest of the month. If you missed Mayor Levar Stoney and the 8News evening anchors turning on the lights you can watch that in 8News Reporter Tyler Thrasher’s video from tonight.
A Christmas tree, reindeer and huge lit-up buildings were all highlights of the RVA Illuminates event. Check out all these photos from the ground and from our drone in the sky on Friday night.
It may not be a sporting event, but 8News Sports Anchor Natalie Kalibat was in the field tonight as the lights came on downtown. See what she saw at the event in her video below:
The 8News team, bundled up and in festive dress, had a blast bringing our viewers a newscast live from the plaza.
Deanna Allbrittin and Eric Phillips seen doing what they do best live for 8News on Friday evening. 
Deanna Allbrittin and Eric Phillips seen doing what they do best live for 8News on Friday evening.
