RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities has announced that RVA Illuminates will be scaled back due to a winter storm forecasted to approach Central Virginia late Thursday night and last through Friday. The official holiday lighting momen t will still take place at Kanawha Plaza on Friday, Dec. 5 -- which people can watch on WRIC Channel 8 beginning at 5:45 p.m. The switch will be flipped to light up the city skyline by 8News' own Eric Philips. All scheduled performances at the event have been canceled due to the forecast. Prior to these changes, RVA Illuminates was set to include performances, food trucks and appearances from Deanna Allbrittin, Madison Moore and Heather Hope. All of these features will no longer be a part of the 2025 event. “We know RVA Illuminates is a cherished tradition for families across our city, and this decision was not made lightly,” said Chris Frelke, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. “Our top priority is always the safety of Richmond residents, visitors, and staff. We’re grateful for the community’s understanding and look forward to celebrating the season in safer conditions.” ...read more read less