Natchez Christmas Pilgrimage Tour of Historic Homes 2024
Natchez Christmas Pilgrimage Tour of Historic Homes - November 15, 2024 to December 31, 2024
Natchez during the holidays offers a distinctive charm all its own. This year, six of the city’s historic antebellum homes will open their doors for the Christmas Pilgrimage Tour of Homes, inviting visitors to step inside and experience both the beauty of seasonal decorations and the deep-rooted history within. Each home captures the essence of Southern hospitality and tradition, creating an unforgettable experience for those seeking a true taste of Natchez at Christmastime.
With so many remarkable homes on the Christmas Pilgrimage, deciding where to start can be a delightful challenge. To help guide your journey, we’ve put together a glimpse of each home on this year’s tour. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning guest, these homes offer a rare opportunity to enjoy Natchez’s history, culture, and holiday spirit. This year’s featured homes—Choctaw Hall, Linden, Sunnyside, Magnolia Hall, The House on Ellicott Hill, and The Towers—each present a distinct and memorable experience for the season. Here’s what makes each one a must-see:
Choctaw Hall
About Choctaw Hall
Built around 1836, Choctaw Hall is a beautiful blend of Greek Revival and Federal architectural styles, showcasing the classic elegance of its time. With three main floors above a raised basement and a graceful oval staircase spiraling through its center, the home is a testament to Southern charm. Double porches framed by tall white columns create an inviting facade that has made Choctaw Hall one of Natchez’s architectural treasures.
Holiday Tour Details: During the Christmas season, Choctaw Hall is transformed with festive holiday decor. Every room is filled with the sparkle of Christmas trees, fragrant greenery, and nostalgic holiday music, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Owners David Garner and Lee Glover lead guided tours, sharing the home’s history and personal stories for an engaging holiday experience. Tours are available Fridays and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., with tickets priced at $25 per person, offering a memorable way to enjoy the season’s beauty and tradition.
For a truly enchanting holiday experience, Choctaw Hall presents the Old World Christmas Candlelight Tour on December 13 and 20 at 5:30 p.m. Priced at $60, this special evening event invites guests to step into a world of timeless charm. The tour showcases a grand 16-foot Christmas tree adorned with sparkling lights and delicate ornaments, along with meticulously crafted fruit topiaries that evoke the season's beauty. A highlight of the evening is a rare Swiss mechanical rotating Christmas tree from the 1904 World’s Fair, filling the air with nostalgia. Guests can enjoy punch, wine, and champagne alongside light refreshments, enhancing the warmth and magic of the evening in one of Natchez’s most stunning historic homes.
Linden
About Linden:
Dating back to around 1818, Linden is a cherished piece of Mississippi history, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built for Mississippi’s first U.S. Senator, Thomas B. Reed, the home features additions by later owners, including Dr. John Kerr, who extended the wings and added the grand ninety-eight-foot gallery. The front door of Linden even inspired the design of Tara’s door in Gone with the Wind, adding a touch of movie magic to its storied past. Today, Linden remains in the Conner family’s care, lovingly preserved by the sixth generation.
Holiday Tour Details: During the Christmas season, Linden’s historic rooms are dressed in festive decor, capturing the holiday spirit with a charming collection of Santa figurines displayed throughout. As part of the Christmas Pilgrimage, tours are offered Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with tickets priced at $25 per person, giving visitors a warm and inviting glimpse into this beloved Southern treasure.
Sunnyside
About Sunnyside:
Sunnyside, a Greek Revival cottage built in 1850, sits gracefully on ten acres just outside downtown Natchez. Once left in disrepair, it was lovingly restored by its owner, interior designer Colleen Wilkins, who brought back its charm with thoughtful attention to every detail. Inside, Sunnyside is filled with fine furnishings, curated artwork, and an extensive library that lend a cozy yet elegant Southern feel. Known as “The Biltmore of Natchez,” the home invites visitors to step back in time and experience true Southern hospitality.
Holiday Tour Details: For the holidays, Sunnyside transforms into a festive wonderland. Colleen Wilkins decorates with over 30 Christmas trees, each adding its own sparkle and cheer to the historic rooms. From November 15 to December 31, guests can enjoy daily tours at 1:30 and 5:00 p.m., with tickets priced at $25. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the season’s magic in a beautifully preserved Southern setting.
Magnolia Hall
About Magnolia Hall:
Magnolia Hall, a magnificent Greek Revival mansion built in 1858, is known for its refined architecture and recently restored "brownstone" facade, which makes it a unique sight in Natchez. Inside, visitors can explore the richly decorated rooms filled with period furnishings, while the second floor features authentic pre-Civil War attire, from ballgowns to military uniforms. Magnolia Hall, owned by the Natchez Garden Club, offers visitors an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life with elegance and historical charm.
Holiday Tour Details: During the holiday season, Magnolia Hall transforms for the Victorian Christmas Tour, inviting guests to experience Christmas traditions from the Scottish heritage to Victorian high society customs. The mansion is adorned with festive greenery and authentic decorations, creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. Guests are treated to holiday punch and cookies as they learn about cherished holiday customs and can even try on costumes from the era. Tours run daily from November 15 to December 31 at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00, with tickets priced at $20 each.
The House on Ellicott Hill
About Ellicott Hill:
Perched on Ellicott Hill, this historic colonial-era merchant’s house is one of Natchez’s oldest landmarks. Built into a hill in the late 18th century, its West Indian architectural flair combines with Federalist elements, creating a striking facade that showcases both sophistication and frontier heritage. The Natchez Garden Club restored the house in 1937, marking Mississippi’s first preservation project, and today it stands as a National Historic Landmark.
Holiday Tour Details: During the holidays, The House on Ellicott Hill transforms, adorned with period décor and seasonal charm. The Christmas tour invites visitors to make clove-studded fruit ornaments and enjoy complimentary wassail, while garlands and antique ornaments add a nostalgic glow. Tours run Fridays and Saturdays from November 15 to December 28 at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00, and Sundays from November 17 to December 29 at 11:00 and 2:00, with tickets priced at $20.
The Towers
About The Towers:
The Towers in Natchez, a grand Italianate mansion surrounded by Civil War-era live oaks, is a showcase of fine antique furnishings, fabric wall coverings, and rare collections, making it one of Mississippi's most admired historic homes. Owners James and Ginger Hyland have preserved this estate with an eye for elegance and historical significance, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
Holiday Tour Details: During the holidays, The Towers comes alive with its enchanting “Jeweled Christmas” tour. Thousands of rhinestone and vintage costume jewelry pieces create dazzling displays, with celebrity items from Betty White, Naomi Judd, and Gone with the Wind adding special charm. Recognized as a Top Ten Unique Christmas Display by USA Today, this festive experience offers an unforgettable way to enjoy the season’s sparkle and spirit. The 1.5-hour tours are $30 per person and available from November 15 to December 29, with advance tickets recommended to secure your spot.
For a more intimate experience, The Towers offers special evening tours at 7:00 p.m. on December 7, 14, and 21, priced at $50 per person. Guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne and delightful desserts while they explore the beautifully decorated halls. Live music enhances the festive atmosphere, and a boutique gift shop features unique holiday items. Each 1.5-hour tour provides a perfect blend of luxury and holiday cheer, making it a memorable way to celebrate the season.
Plan Your Stay
For those traveling from out of town, be sure to reserve your Beaumont House stay and Pilgrimage tickets early, as the holiday season is a popular time in Natchez. Make the most of your holiday visit by staying with us at Beaumont House Bed and Breakfast, where every guest room is dressed for the season with garlands, lights, and special Christmas bedding. Our cozy rooms and welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect retreat after a day exploring the Christmas Pilgrimage Tour of Homes.
For the best room rates, check availability and book directly through our website. You may also secure your tour tickets in advance at Little Easy Tours. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the holiday magic of Natchez!
For more ideas to make the most of your stay, check out our other blog posts. Whether you're looking for “10 Fun Things to Do in Natchez on a Budget,” exploring “Natchez Dining and Restaurants,” or diving into “The History of Natchez,” we’ve got tips and insights to enrich your Natchez experience. it stand out
