A Holiday Tradition: 49th Homes for the Holidays Tour
Experience the wonder of the season during the Heritage Homes Association’s 49th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour in Abilene, Kansas. This year’s lineup features five beautifully decorated historic homes and one charming church, each sharing its own unique story. It is easy to see why USA TODAY readers named Abilene a Best Historic Small Town.
The self-guided tour takes place Saturday, December 5 from 4 to 8 p.m. and Sunday, December 6 from 1 to 5 p.m.
Tickets are $10 and will be available beginning Thanksgiving week at West’s Plaza Country Mart, Abilene Downtown Antique and Mud Creek Malls, and online at www.LittleTownofMansions.com.
About Us
Commitment to Historic Preservation
Since 1976, Abilene has welcomed visitors to its annual Homes for the Holidays Tour. The Dickinson County Historical Society launched the event as a Bicentennial project and first presented it during Heritage Days each fall. The inaugural tour sold all 500 available tickets.
The Heritage Homes Association grew out of the Historical Society’s Historic Preservation Committee. As interest increased, the group secured nonprofit status and took over sponsorship of the tour to support its mission to celebrate and protect historic homes in Abilene. The Association later expanded the tour to a two-day holiday event, allowing more guests to take part. Organizers also added a Saturday evening candlelight experience. Today, visitors from Kansas and neighboring states look forward to this beloved tradition.
Proceeds from the tour support the purchase of bronze plaques that identify historic homes, along with record and equipment purchases for property research at the Dickinson County Historical Society.
Bronze Plaque Program
The Association awards bronze plaques to homes that display the property’s construction date. Volunteers research each home and verify the construction date using at least two reliable sources. Homeowners with properties at least 50 years old may apply. Applicants gather information about when the land was platted, when the home was built and by whom, and a list of past owners. Volunteers devote many hours to assist with this process.
Researchers use property tax records, deeds, court filings, city directories, and newspaper articles to document each home. The Association creates a permanent file for each property, including source documents, a complete history, and photographs when available. Completed files are housed at the Dickinson County Historical Society and made available for public research. The bronze plaques remain with the homes when they are sold, keeping the story alive for future owners.
Learn more about the Heritage Homes Association at www.LittleTownofMansions.com.
Join Us
Join us! Love historic homes and holiday decorating? Want to help preserve and promote our Little Town of Mansions? Contact HHA President Sabrina Holland at SK Designs at 785-263-1423.
5 Most Frequently Asked Questions
- Will the homes be decorated for the holidays?
Yes! Each home will be decorated for the season. Styles vary, but every stop features its own unique family holiday pieces. - Is there a specific order for visiting?
No. The tour is self-guided. Start wherever you’d like and enjoy at your own pace. - Where do I park?
On-street parking is available near each home. You may need to walk a short distance or have someone drop you off. - Are kids welcome?
Yes! Children are welcome with an accompanying adult. Tickets are $10 for all ages.
How do I get my home on the tour?
We’d love to visit with you about the 2027 tour! Please reach out for details.