Note: This story has been updated to reflect the postponement of the original event.

Due to a storm expected to roll through the region Friday into Saturday, Bristol's "Grand Illumination" and downtown lighting is being postponed 24 hours. It is now planned for Sunday, Dec. 6. Everything else about the event remains the same.

In a route that will, beginning at 6 p.m., take Santa from the Fire Department headquarters west on Annawamscutt Drive, north on Metacom Avenue, west on Chestnut Street, south on Hope Street, east on Washington Street, south on High Street, east on Walley Street, north on Wood Street, west on Franklin Street, and south on Hope Street to the Burnside building, a car parade will stand in for the traditional Grand Illumination festivities this year. Vehicles will include Bristol Police Department motorcycles, Fire Department Engine 4, and Fire Department Truck 6.

On arrival at the Burnside Building, Santa’s truck will pause for a moment so he can give the signal for the lights to be turned on. The last part of his route will take him south on Hope Street to Ferry Road, east on Griswold Avenue, and, finally, north on Metacom Avenue to return to the fire station.

There will be no speaking program or performances this year. Spectators are encouraged to watch Santa pass along the route; any spectators who choose to congregate near the Burnside Building should wear masks and observe social distancing.

“The Bristol Christmas Festival’s Grand Illumination is more than lights strung on a tree. The lights represent our community spirit and our traditions,” said Christmas Festival chairman Michael Reilly. “And even though our Grand Illumination will look a little different this year, the spirit of the season will always shine through.”