Even the Grinch-iest individuals will head home to hang up a stocking after taking in one of the spectacular house tours being held in the Essex, Morris, and Union areas. Whether you’re looking to get in the holiday spirit or seeking a little decor inspiration, these day and weekend walk-throughs should do the trick.
When it comes to decking the halls, these homes are dressed to the nines. In addition to being visually appealing, many tours support great causes and include other enticing features like boutiques, tempting luncheons, and refreshments.
Take a look and buy a ticket!
Reeves Reed Holiday House Tour
Support Summit’s 13.5-acre National Historic Landmark by attending this festive day, which raises funds for Reeves Reed Arboretum’s historic estate and educational programs.
Historic Wisner House Mantle, courtesy of ETSchindler Photography
Where: 165 Hobart Avenue
Holiday Boutique & Garden Shoppe is located at Reeves-Reed Arboretum’s historic Wisner House.
When: Thursday, Dec. 7, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Holiday Boutique 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost:
House Tour:
RRA Member $40, Non-Member $45
House Tour & Lunch at the Beacon Hill Club
RRA Member $75, Non-Member $80
All tour tickets will be $50 on the day of the tour.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit the arboretum’s website.
Washington Park Historic Association of North Plainfield’s Holiday House Tour
Homes will feature a display of original artwork by local artists.
Courtesy of Washington Park Historic District Association
Slip into the Victorian era as you tour seven stunning homes of the Washington Park Historic District in North Plainfield. As part of the tour there will also be a wine tasting from 5 - 7 pm at Super Buy Rite Liquor of North Plainfield, 967 Rt. 22 West and a chocolate tasting at Gertrude Hawk Chocolates, 965 Rt. 22 West from 1 - 7 pm.
Where: The tour begins at the historic Church of the Holy Cross at 40 Mercer Avenue in North Plainfield. Walk from home to home or travel by horse-drawn carriage
When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 1 to 6 p.m.
Cost: Tickets are $25 if purchased before December 9, and $30 if purchased the day of the tour.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit Washington Park Historic Association’s website.
Essex County Historic Holiday House Tour
Thirteen homes and historic sites will be on view and offering entertainment, refreshments, or educational opportunities. The Crane House and Historic YWCA, decorated by the Garden Club of Montclair, and Shultz House are open for self-guided tours. Learn about holiday food traditions or history during a visit to the Shultz House, which features Molly Shultz’s own collection on Christmas decorations, mantle decorations from local florists, antique toys, and children’s book exhibit.
Where: 110 Orange Road & 30 North Mountain Avenue, Montclair
When: Saturday, Dec. 2, - Dec. 3,1 to 4 p.m.
Cost: $5 per person; members free
For more information, visit Montclair History Center’s website.
Candlelight Tour of Essex County Kip’s Castle
Enjoy learning more about this historic castle and its the stained glass Tiffany windows on a guided tour.
Tour a castle by candlelight and learn more about its Tiffany windows.
Courtesy of Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs
Where: 22 Crestmont Road, Verona
When: Tours are Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays at 7 p.m. during the month of December.
Cost: $8 entrance fee includes coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. Advance registration is required; call 973-202-8519.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, call Jamie Wessel at (973) 202-8519 to make a reservation.
Cranford Woman’s Club Home for the Holidays House Tour
This self-directed tour features five lovely Cranford homes dressed up for the holidays. Volunteers will share information on the special details of each house as visitors pass through. A hospitality house will be offering light refreshments while The Hanson House will also host the Green Thumb Garden Club Holiday Boutique.
When: Sunday, December 3, noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Hanson House, 38 Springfield Avenue, Cranford
Cost: Tickets are $25 per person
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit Cranford.com
