The Garden Club of St. Augustine will host its 53rd Holiday Tour of Homes “Christmas in the Gilded Age” from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 8. This is one of St. Augustine's oldest and most anticipated holiday traditions. The tea and boutique will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at River House, 179 Marine St.
Six houses will be decorated by the Garden Club of St. Augustine. All of the Floral arrangements and holiday wreaths, swags and garland are made with fresh flowers and local, native greenery.
Designers work with the homeowners to come up with unique plans to complement their homes and décor. The houses are all located in The Flagler Model Land Neighborhood, with two houses on Riberia Street, three on Valencia Street and the Markland House on King Street. The homes are a short walking distance from the downtown garage on Castillo Drive.
This is considered a walking tour with limited transportation provided. Council on Aging buses will be located at the parking garage, River House and on the corner of Malaga and Valencia streets. Some of the homes have steps.
The tea includes holiday cookies made by the Garden Club members, coffee, tea and punch. The boutique will take place in several rooms of the River House. Holiday wreaths, ornaments, live arrangements and gift baskets made by Garden Club members will be for sale. A "will call area" will be available so attendees do not have to carry their purchases on the tour.
Tickets will go on sale on Oct. 1. The cost is $45 per ticket, and they sell out quickly.
For information on how to purchase tickets online, go to gardenclubofstaugustine.org.
Tickets may be purchased at the following local venues (cash or check sales only) starting Oct. 1:
