Deck the Halls!
Holiday home tours invite visitors inside some of the region’s most treasured homes.
By Sharon Harper
There’s something about Christmas that makes us appreciate the places we call home, especially those that have been part of our communities for generations. Behind the front doors of historic houses are stories of families, traditions and changing times. And for a few special days each December, some of those doors open to welcome visitors.
Across the Upper East Side of Texas, holiday home tours have become a treasured tradition. Homeowners bring out their Christmas finery, volunteers polish the silver and hang the greenery, and historic residences take on a little extra sparkle. From Jefferson’s candlelit Victorian homes and Denison’s downtown lofts to grand old houses in Waxahachie and the historic Oaklea Mansion in Winnsboro, each tour offers something different.
Of course, half the fun is seeing how other people decorate for Christmas.
There are beautifully dressed trees, festive tables, mantels overflowing with greenery and enough decorating ideas to keep us busy until next December. But there’s more to these tours than holiday decorations. They offer a chance to admire the craftsmanship of another era, hear a little local history and appreciate the people who work to preserve these special places.
Here are 10 holiday home tours worth adding to your calendar this season.
Jefferson
Candlelight Tour of Homes
Dec. 3–5 and 10–12
In historic Jefferson, Christmas takes on the charm of another era during the annual Candlelight Tour of Homes. Private historic residences, normally closed to the public, welcome visitors into rooms filled with fresh greenery, candlelight, shimmering glass ornaments and traditional holiday decorations. Docents dressed in period costumes share stories of the homes and the people who once lived there, bringing the town’s rich history to life. jeffersoncandlelight.com
Crockett
Holiday Tour of Homes
Dec. 5
Crockett invites visitors to step inside some of its cherished historic homes, each decorated to celebrate the season. The annual tour offers an opportunity to admire local architecture, discover the stories behind these residences and enjoy the hospitality of one of East Texas’ oldest communities. discovercrocketttx.com
Denison
Home and Loft Tour
Dec. 5–6
Denison offers a slightly different perspective on holiday home tours, combining beautifully decorated residences with historic downtown lofts. This self-guided experience invites visitors to explore creative living spaces, admire architectural details and discover how historic buildings have been adapted for modern life. It’s also a chance to enjoy Denison’s downtown shops and restaurants during the Christmas season. discoverdenison.com/events
Terrell
Social Science Club Tour of Homes
Dec. 5
A cherished Terrell holiday tradition, the Social Science Club Tour of Homes opens the doors to a selection of historic residences and buildings dressed for Christmas. Visitors can admire architectural details, seasonal decorations and the care that goes into preserving these special properties. The tour offers an inviting way to experience Terrell’s history while celebrating the holiday season. terrellssc.org/2026
McKinney
Holiday Tour of Homes
Dec. 5–6
Celebrating its 53rd year, McKinney’s Holiday Tour of Homes, presented by Chestnut Square, invites visitors into beautifully decorated historic properties. The event highlights the city’s architectural heritage and offers a glimpse of Christmas traditions through the years. Bonus properties and an optional breakfast tea add to the experience, making this a popular holiday outing.chestnutsquare.org
Mineola | Landmark Christmas Tour
of Homes
Dec. 6
Historic homes take center stage during Mineola’s Landmark Christmas Tour of Homes. Visitors are invited to explore residences decorated for the season while appreciating the architectural character and history of this East Texas community. The afternoon offers a chance to enjoy Christmas traditions and discover some of Mineola’s treasured landmarks. mineola.com/events
Winnsboro
Oaklea Mansion Holiday Tours
Dec. 10–12 and 17–19
Winnsboro’s historic Oaklea Mansion becomes a Christmas destination as local designers, businesses and volunteers transform its rooms into festive displays. Each space offers its own interpretation of the season, blending the character of the historic mansion with creative holiday decorating. Select dates feature visits from Father Christmas, overnight stays and a gingerbread house competition. oakleamansion.com
Palestine
Holiday Home Tour
Dec. 11–12
Palestine welcomes visitors to discover beautifully decorated homes filled with holiday warmth and individual style. Each stop offers a different perspective on Christmas decorating, from traditional touches to creative seasonal displays. Along the way, guests experience the architectural charm and community spirit that make Palestine a favorite East Texas destination. palestinechamber.org/holiday-home-tour
Nacogdoches
Christmas Tour of Homes
Dec. 12
In the oldest town in Texas, the Christmas Tour of Homes invites visitors to explore beautiful residences and historic structures decorated for the holidays. Part of the community’s seasonal celebrations, the tour combines Christmas hospitality with an appreciation for the architecture and history that make Nacogdoches such a distinctive destination.visitnacogdoches.org
Waxahachie
Historic Christmas Tour of Homes
Dec. 12–13
Known for its remarkable collection of historic architecture, Waxahachie offers a holiday tour featuring beautifully preserved homes decorated in their Christmas finest. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship of another era while enjoying festive displays that celebrate both the season and the city’s preservation heritage. historicwaxahachie.com
Tour dates, hours, ticket prices and participating properties may change. Visit each organization’s website for current details before traveling.
