Old Southwest Holiday Parlor Tour of Historic Homes
Step back in time and experience the magic of the holidays with the Old Southwest Parlor Tour of Historic Homes. This cherished annual event invites visitors into beautifully decorated, century-old residences, showcasing the historic charm of the neighborhood. Enjoy a self-guided tour, festive decorations, and a glimpse into the past, all while supporting vital preservation efforts.
What to Expect
Self-guided tour of historic homes decorated for the holidays.
Event Details
Duration
2:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Ages
All ages (children must be supervised)
Neighborhood
Old Southwest
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Old Southwest, Inc.
Food & Drink
Refreshments available at the Alexander-Gish house.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
History buffs, holiday enthusiasts, architecture lovers
Vibe
Festive, historic, charming, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available at the Alexander-Gish House or on-street (please do not block driveways).
- Accessibility: Strollers are not permitted in the homes. Children must be closely supervised.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Purchase advance tickets online for a reduced price of $20; day-of tickets are $25.
- Plan to start your self-guided tour at any home, beginning at 2:00 PM, and note that the tour concludes at 8:30 PM.
- Wear comfortable, flat shoes as high heels are not permitted to protect the historic wood floors.
- Brochures with home addresses will be emailed prior to the tour day or available at the Alexander-Gish House and each home on the tour.
- Public restrooms are available at the Alexander-Gish House and designated neighborhood locations, but not within the private homes.
Special Events & Promotions
- Advance-sale tickets are $20 online, $25 day-of.
- Funds raised support the preservation of the Alexander-Gish House and neighborhood projects.
- Digital brochures with addresses will be emailed prior to the tour.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Old Southwest Parlor Tour?
It is an annual self-guided tour of historic homes in the Old Southwest neighborhood, decorated for the holidays, which serves as a major fundraiser for Old Southwest, Inc.
When and where does the tour take place?
The tour is held on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with participating homes located throughout the historic Old Southwest neighborhood in Roanoke, VA.
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Advance-sale tickets are $20 online, and day-of tickets are $25. Tickets can be purchased online via Give Butter or in-person at the Alexander-Gish House on the day of the event.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, all ages are welcome, but children must be closely supervised at all times, and strollers are not permitted inside the homes.
What is the purpose of the fundraiser?
Funds raised directly support the maintenance of the Historic Alexander-Gish House, as well as neighborhood events, improvement projects, and other community initiatives.
More Christmas Events Near Roanoke
More Christmas Events near Roanoke
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.