North Augusta Shines Bright During the Annual Christmas Tour of Homes
The holiday spirit is alive and well in North Augusta! This past weekend, locals welcomed the annual Christmas Tour of Homes, a beloved event that has been a tradition for the past 36 years. With a mix of stunning decorations and community camaraderie, it’s no wonder so many people turn out for a chance to peek inside the delightful homes of their neighbors.
Homes Shining with Holiday Cheer
The tour featured several gorgeous homes, including two in the picturesque neighborhood of Hammond’s Ferry. There, one can find houses twinkling with lights and festive decorations that bring glee to all who visit. James Vance and his husband Kyle West kicked off the tour at their cozy Tudor-style home on Phoenix Street.
“Christmas is our favorite season to decorate for,” Vance exclaimed, excitement bubbling in his voice. Their home was a visual treat, adorned with colorful lights and holiday cheer that extended far beyond their own front yard. “We started decorating right after Halloween and finished just in time for the tour,” he added proudly.
The Joy of Sharing
Vance’s enthusiasm resonates with many who attend this event. “I hope people smile when they see our decorations,” he shared. Indeed, the spirit of sharing joy was palpable throughout the night, and it was not just the stunning displays that drew people in, but the sense of community they felt while exploring the beauty that their neighborhood had to offer.
Another popular stop on the tour was the home of Joel and Lynda Ozburn, also located in Hammond’s Ferry. Their beautifully decorated tree, adorned with ornaments collected from their travels, caught the eyes of many as they stood in line to see the delightful arrangement. In addition to their travel-themed ornaments, the Ozburns showcased a whimsical Nutcracker and a lively Wizard of Oz-themed tree, bringing a sense of nostalgia to those visiting.
Traditions and New Friends
While walking through the charming neighborhood, friends Amanda Moye and Hope Cline expressed their joy at participating in the tour. “We love to see the homes; they are just so beautiful,” Moye said, her eyes sparkling at the thought of the gorgeous displays. The two agreed that visiting at night was essential, as the twinkling lights truly enhanced the holiday spirit. “It just feels more Christmassy,” Cline added, nodding in agreement. “This is our way of kicking off the holidays!”
A Heartwarming Cause
Not only is the Christmas Tour of Homes a feast for the eyes, but it also has a meaningful purpose. The funds raised during this heartwarming event go towards scholarships for North Augusta High School students. Over the years, the tour has amassed an incredible $217,000 in scholarships, assisting countless students in their pursuit of higher education. This fact brings even more warmth to the hearts of those who attend, knowing their participation plays a role in shaping the futures of aspiring graduates.
Looking Ahead
As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the magic of Christmas had truly settled into North Augusta. With the promise of community, joy, and shared memories, residents can look forward to many more years of extravagant decorations and festive gatherings. Whether you’re a long-time participant or a newcomer, there’s no denying that this tradition brings the community together and fills the air with the spirit of Christmas.
Just as James Vance expressed, the beautification of homes is for everyone’s enjoyment. There’s something undeniably special about seeing the personal touch each homeowner adds to their holiday decor, and it’s that spirit that keeps people coming back year after year. Here’s to another magical Christmas in North Augusta!
