A preview of the Preservation Resource Center’s holiday home tour

The Preservation Resource Center’s Holiday Home Tour has been a seasonal fixture for 43 years now—long enough that some longtime attendees are returning with grandchildren in tow.

“It’s a wonderful holiday tradition in New Orleans,” said Danielle Del Sol, executive director of the Preservation Resource Center (PRC).

During the tour, which is presented by McEnery Residential and benefits the PRC’s education, outreach, and advocacy programs, eight homes in the Garden District and Lower Garden District open their doors.

Photo by Sara Essex Bradley

The homes display a wide range of architectural and interior design styles. Some include impressive art collections.

“We have a healthy mix of traditional interiors with things that are more modern,” Del Sol said. “And a few people collect art, so (attendees) can have a visual feast.”

Photo by Sara Essex Bradley

There’s plenty of entertainment in addition to the homes themselves. Each home features live performances by local musicians. Indigo Strings Music, Loyola University Flute Ensemble, New Orleans Celtic Harp Ensemble, The Truffle Honeys, and Skvarka Sound Trio share the bill, along with many other performers.

“Many homes have pianos, so we get a lot of pianists and trios,” Del Sol said. “Or small groups playing in the yard.”

Photo by Sara Essex Bradley

The homes on the tour are all within walking distance. Two shuttle buses will make a loop from house to house. There’s also a holiday market at the tour headquarters at Trinity Episcopal Church (1329 Jackson Avenue).

“We have awesome vendors who come every year—there’s salvaged wood furniture, candy from Southern Candymakers, books and clothes,” Del Sol said. “It’s an awesome one-stop shop for holiday shopping.”

Photo by Sara Essex Bradley

The PRC’s Holiday Home Tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9. Tickets are $30 for PRC members, $45 for non-members, and $50 at the door.