Historic Columbia Foundation Brings Classic Holidays to Visitors

Decorated Houses, Lantern Tours, and Programs Provide Economical Family Entertainment through the Holidays

November 20, 2009 ' January 3, 2010

Columbia's Historic House Museums

COLUMBIA, SC ' Families and tourists can enjoy affordable holiday activities with the Historic Columbia Foundation from now through January 3 as the organization hosts a classic holiday experience with decorated house tours, carriage rides, a Victorian Santa, hands-on crafts, and live music.

Visitors can participate in a variety of holiday events in an historic setting, which includes three of Columbia's historic house museums decorated for 19^th-and 20^th-century holiday entertaining.

Tours of Decorated Historic Houses

now' January 3, 2010

Tuesday ' Saturday 10 a.m. ' 4 p.m. and Sundays, 1 p.m. ' 5 p.m.

1616 Blanding Street

Visitors can take guided tours of decorated house museums including the Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion, and Mann-Simons Cottage. All tours offer a glimpse into the lives of three different families and what it may have been like to entertain and prepare for the holidays in late 19^th -and early 20^th -century Columbia. Visitors can view detailed greenery and faux food throughout each house.

Admission is $6 (single adult admission), $3 (ages 6-17), and free (5 and under). Reservations are required for group tours or to take a special 90-minute, three-house tour. Call 803.252.1770, ext. 24. Visit www.HistoricColumbia.org for more information.