Essex Historical Society welcomes visitors to attend the 16th biennial Essex Holiday House Tour.

The town of Essex opens its homes this December to support the education and public programs of the Essex Historical Society (EHS).  On Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., EHS presents a self-guided walking tour through six to eight private homes beautifully decorated for the holidays in downtown Essex.

The self-guided walking tour twists and turns through seven distinctive 18th- and 19th-century homes, as well as EHS’s 18th-century Pratt House, the Connecticut River Museum featuring its annual Holiday Train Show, the Essex Art Association, and St. John’s Episcopal Church, all historic sites.

“This year, we chose to decorate the Pratt House with a maritime theme so prevalent in Essex’s shipbuilding history,” explains EHS Director Melissa Josefiak.

“Don’t miss this tour,” says Josefiak. “The tour provides a rare opportunity to see the specially decorated, beautiful, historic homes of Essex and to enjoy the spirit of the holidays.”

Essex’s Holiday House Tour, which had been placed on hiatus during the pandemic, is now returning after five years.  Many members of the organization who previously hosted the Holiday House Tour, the Essex Auxiliary of the Child & Family Agency of Southeastern CT, joined EHS’s planning team to ensure a smooth transition.

“We are so grateful to the veteran members of our committee,” said event co-chair Melinda Kingsbury.“Their insight is invaluable in planning this beloved holiday event!”

All proceeds from the Essex Holiday House Tour benefit EHS’s education programs for social studies enrichment in area schools.  This event marks the 16th holiday house tour presented in Essex and a fabulous opportunity to see some of Essex’s historic homes that showcase elegant architectural features in their original settings. Attendees can purchase tickets online for $60 in advance through Tuesday, Nov. 26, or $70 on the day of the event at the Essex Town Hall, 29 West Avenue.  For more information, visit essexhistory.org.