The city of Richmond will host a number of citywide events in celebration of this holiday season. City residents and visitors can enjoy the spirit of the season at the 17th Street Farmers’ Market’s Grand Illumination celebration on Friday, December 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Local crafters and food vendors will be highlighted at the event, and the Salvation Army International Brass Ensemble will perform a variety of holiday classics. Holiday celebrations will still be in full swing on Saturday, December 12 at the 17th Street Farmers’ Market. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., over 80 tuba players will perform in four-part harmony at this year’s Tuba Christmas. Singing Santa will also be at the event, caroling the crowd. This is a must see holiday event for the entire family. For more information on the 17th Street Farmers’ Market, call (804) 646-0477 or visit www.17thstreetfarmersmarket.com . Main Street Station will host its annual Holiday Open House on Friday, December 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at th

WHO: Mayor Dwight C. Jones Linda Forem, General Manager Radio One Richmond Clovia “Miss Community” Lawrence, Community Outreach Director Radio One Richmond WHAT: Event to begin the City of Richmond and Radio One Holiday Toy Drive WHEN: 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 2, 2009 WHERE: Richmond Fire Station 10 900 Hermitage Road Richmond, Virginia Background: Donations of new, unwrapped toys, books and clothing are appreciated and will be accepted at any city fire station or at City Hall through December 17. Radio One will also be accepting donations at the Wal-Mart Supercenter at 2501 Sheila Lane from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Dec. 17. Donations will be distributed to children in need within the Richmond community. Contact: Tammy Hawley, (804) 646-3110