For a quarter of a century, Hillsborough has showcased its history and its holiday spirit through its annual Candlelight Home Tour — and this Sunday, the tradition continues.
The tour, which will allow attendees to see eight historical homes that range from hundreds of years to just one year old, as well as other public buildings, is just one of several events Hillsborough hosts to celebrate the season.
Margaret Cannell, executive director of the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce, said the candlelight tour usually draws a crowd of about 600 people.
“It’s a way for the community to remember the history of these houses, that they’ve been here and Hillsborough’s been here for such a long time,” said Brandie Fields, executive director of the Orange County Historical Museum, which will also be on the candlelight tour.
The tour will highlight the work of Hillsborough brick mason John Berry and the homes he built and contributed to, including Burnside, the Ruffin-Hill House and the Berry Brick House.
“Hillsborough is very proud of its history and a lot of that has to do with its architecture,” said Hillsborough Mayor Tom Stevens. “Some of the nicest homes in Hillsborough are open and certainly decorated for the holidays.”
The tour will also visit churches and other public buildings. It will feature live music by hand bell choirs and school choral groups.
Cannell said the tour will offer carriage rides this year, a feature that has been popular in the past.
Last year, a draw of the tour was the contrast between the ages of the historic homes, she said.
