Define ‘naughty or nice’ // Aiden Hunter, 1, appears none too merry about his encounter with Santa with Soul, the jolly old elf from the North Pole. Santa (Harry Henry) was hearing the wishes of youngsters last Saturday at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia’s annual holiday open house in Jackson Ward. Children had their picture taken with Santa, made holiday ornaments and enjoyed holiday music and refreshments with their families and others attending the event.

Virginia’s Christmas tree now decorates the South Portico of the State Capitol. Gov. Terry McAuliffe and his wife, First Lady Dorothy S. McAuliffe, lit the tree during a ceremony last Thursday. The Executive Mansion also is decked out for the holidays, with decorations celebrating the state’s woodlands and commemorating the state Department of Forestry’s 100th anniversary. The mansion where the first couple lives is open to visitors for extended hours during the holidays. Details: www.executivemansion.virginia.gov/events/

Budding holiday fir in North Side

Downtown illuminates in grand style // Spectators enjoy the dazzling array of lights that brighten Downtown at the 31st Annual Grand Illumination at the James Center at 10th and Cary streets. The festive free event, complete with music, food and fun, creates a holiday at- mosphere each year that lifts spirits and brings joy to the community.

Devaney, left, and Andera Davis of Chesterfield County are wowed by a lighted reindeer on the holiday scape.

Holiday spirit on parade // Colorful floats, high-stepping marching bands, giant balloons and, yes, Santa Claus and the Snow Queen. They all were among the sights at the 32nd Annual Dominion Christmas Parade last Saturday. Thousands of people lined the route to enjoy the parade that started at the Science Museum on West Broad Street and headed Downtown, concluding at 7th and Broad streets. Marchers help guide a big balloon of a Smurf cartoon character that was sponsored by Patient First

Holiday spirit on parade // Richmond City Council President Michelle R. Mosby, below, warmly waves to the crowd.

Holiday spirit on parade // Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham delivers personal and up close greetings to spectators along the parade route.

Holiday spirit on parade // Talib Gill is fascinated by a “Star Wars” character

Holiday spirit on parade // David Whiteside hands out lots and lots of balloons.

Holiday spirit on parade // The Petersburg High School Marching Band

Holiday spirit on parade // dancers from Commonwealth Dance Art Academy

Holiday spirit on parade // Hampton University Drum Majors Terrell White and Curtis Mason move and groove to the sounds of holiday music as they march in the parade.