While NoVA is full of holiday lights, markets, and other festivities, some of the most beloved holiday events are the annual historic home tours. Homes dating back from the early 1700s through the mid-20th century deck the halls and open their doors, sharing stories and traditions of the region. Here are six holiday home tours across Northern Virginia to enjoy this season.
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
December 1–2, 8–9, and 17, times vary
If you haven’t toured the estate by candlelight, you can’t miss out on this opportunity. The 45-minute tour will showcase 18th-century holiday traditions as you listen to stories of past Christmases at Mount Vernon. After the tour, munch on complimentary ginger cookies and spiced cider and visit Aladdin, the Christmas camel. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $20–$28 for members, $30–$38 for non-members
Holiday Tours at Pope-Leighey House
December 1–2, 8–9, and 15–16, 6–8 p.m.
Take a step back in time for a special mid-century holiday celebration. The Frank Lloyd Wright– designed home will be decked to the nines as it opens its to guests this holiday season. Advanced registration is recommended. Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House: 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria, $15
Hillsboro Homes Walking Tour
December 9, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Spend the day touring five historic homes in Hillsboro. Along Main Street, you’ll find holiday decorations, carolers, and homemade goodies. Guests can choose between the self-guided, guided, or candlelight tour. Hillsboro Old Stone School: 37098 Charles Town Pk., HIllsboro, $15 for self-guided tour, $18 for guided tour, $22 for candlelight- guided tour
Historic Holiday Open House at the Weems-Botts Museum
December 9, 1–5 p.m.
The annual tour welcomes the entire community to the historic home following the Dumfries Holiday Parade. The holiday tours will feature live music from Broad Run Strings, cookie decorating, and tasty treats. 3944 Cameron St., Dumfries, free
Colonial Holiday Evening at Carlyle House
December 9, 4–7 p.m.
Celebrate the season 18th century-style. Learn about how the holidays used to be celebrated hundreds of years ago as you tour the first floor of the historic home. Registration not required. Carlyle House: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, $12 for adults, $4 for children ages 6–12
Candlelight Holiday Tour at Sully Historic Site
December 9 and 16, 4:45–7:45 p.m.
Tour the home of Northern Virginia’s first member of Congress, Richard Bland Lee. Candlelight will illuminate the home while you listen to tales of the families and enslaved people who lived and worked throughout the house. Holiday crafts and hot beverages and cookies will be available. 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, $12
Feature image courtesy of George Washington’s Mount Vernon
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