Historic Columbia Candlelight Tours

Our season of fun-filled-family-festivities continued last Thursday (December 15) with a tour of one of the historic homes here in Columbia.

It was really pretty - the homes were decorated with period pieces, including china, furnishings, and appropriate Christmas decorations, all lit by the soft glow of candlelight.  The kids really liked it ... well ... except Jack, who wanted to swing and play with the ropes used to keep patrons out of the displays - so he and I left the house early and opted to hang out on the front porch.

No matter, shortly thereafter we boarded a carriage for an evening tour of historic Columbia.  It's kind of funny, I've lived here for more than 10 years now, but have never taken a tour of the historic homes in this city.  I always want to do the same sort of tour in other cities I visit, like Charleston or Savannah, but for some reason, never did here at home.

I'm so glad we did.

The kids loved the carriage ride - especially Jack - who felt the need to narrate our tour - announcing every time 'the horsey stop mama' or 'the horsey is moving mama' throughout the tour.  And it was really nice to see so many of the historic homes and buildings I typically drive right past - not realizing the importance or character they hold.

Thankfully Prince Charming was as charming as his name suggested - and allowed the children to pet his soft muzzle and admire his big eyes and ears.

While we were there, we also got to meet the Victorian Santa, who, as his name suggests, was dressed as a true Victorian-era Santa, down to his green velvet robes.  We didn't get a picture with him that night ... but stay tuned!