During four days each December, the quiet streets of the North Opelika Historic Neighborhood in Opelika, Ala., are transformed into an elegant Victorian Christmas fairyland with Old World Christmas figures adorning the porches of more than 30 turn-of-the-century homes.
People travel from far and near to see the life-size Santas, children, angels, toys, teddy bears, carousel horses and other elaborate figures designed by local artist Jan Jones.
Ms. Jones began the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour by accident eight years ago. Saddened that her elaborate figures were in storage while awaiting delivery to the shopping centers that would display them during the Christmas season, she decided to share their beauty with her neighbors. One night she secretly placed the figures on the porches of the homes in her historic neighborhood. To her surprise word spread quickly about the classic decorations, and people began traveling to Opelika to see them.
Now in its sixth year, more than 10,000 visitors are traveling to Opelika for the one-of-a-kind Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour.
An annual event celebrated on the second weekend in December, the tour is open to automobiles and walkers on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. On Saturday, the streets are closed to automobiles so carolers, neighbors in Victorian costumes and live entertainment can be experienced on foot. Also on Saturday, visitors can enjoy holiday treats at the historic Brownfield House and Heritage House.
The tour begins at North Eighth Street on Second Avenue and passes beautiful historic homes built in the Neoclassical, Victorian and even Steamboat Gothic styles. There is no admission charge for the walking or driving tour. Admission is charged to tour the homes open on Saturday only.
2001 Dates: December 5 - 9
Contact:
Auburn/Opelika Convention and Visitors Bureau
1-800-321-8880