The Bartholomew County Historical Society is teaming up with the Historic Downtown Neighborhood Alliance to present a tour of historic homes decorated for the holidays.
The Open Door Tour: Home for the Holidays, set for Friday evening, is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, organizers say, as patrons are able to check out eight homes, three downtown churches, the Columbus Area Visitors Center, and the historical society museum, all decked out and full of cheer.
“Enjoy a multitude of decorations both inside and out as you tour many homes that have never before been open to the public,” a description reads. “Stop by the churches to enjoy some musical entertainment, each providing their own special gift to the community.”
Creches from the collection of Xenia Miller will be available for viewing at both at the visitors center and the historical society, and ticket holders are encouraged to peruse downtown stores and dine a local restaurants while in the area.
The tour will last from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the night of. Guests 16 years-old and younger must be accompanied by an adult and purchase a ticket.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite at tinyurl.com/HomesForTheHolidays2025. Proceeds benefit the Historic Downtown Neighborhood Alliance and the Bartholomew County Historical Society.
Guests are able to start at any location, but organizers note that the self-guided walking tour has limitations on accessibility at most locations.
The following homes are part of the tour:
- 628 Lafayette Ave.
- 737 Lafayette Ave.
- 621 8th Street
- 814 Franklin Street
- 821 Franklin Street
- 428 10th Street
- 1027 Franklin Street
- 1040 Franklin Street
- 521 5th Street
- 618 8th Street
- 512 7th Street
- 524 3rd Street
- 506 5th Street
