Historic Oakwood candlelight holiday tour returns

by Jessie Ammons

There’s no place like home for the holidays, and you can enjoy a few historic ones at the annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour this month. The self-guided tour Dec. 9 – 10 invites visitors to bundle up and stroll among open houses in Oakwood, the neighborhood just east of downtown Raleigh. Homes date mostly from the mid-19th and early 20th centuries, and their residents deck the halls with character. Some stops include traditional decorations, a roaring fire, and homemade treats; others, an eclectic mix of modern and historic flair. The ramble becomes especially cozy come sunset, hence its “candlelight” name. And the whole neighborhood catches the holiday spirit: You’re likely to be invited to a nearby front porch for a mug of hot cider or to hear the faint melody of resident Christmas carolers. Who knows, you might be tempted to chime in. 

You are recommended to dedicate 3 – 4 hours for the tour. Tickets are $30 and available at select retail locations, online at historicoakwood.org, and day-of at The Tucker House, 418 N. Person St.