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Tour of homes promises sparkle, tradition and small-town cheer
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WASHINGTON — Candlelit windows, vintage garlands and the glow of winter fires will set the scene as a select few Washington businesses and families welcome guests into their spaces for one of the town’s beloved holiday traditions this weekend: the Candlelight Tour of Homes.
The Washington Chamber of Commerce invites residents and visitors to “grab your tickets and join us for this stunning Washington tradition — filled with charm, sparkle, and the true spirit of the season,” promising a festive stroll through architecture, craftsmanship and community spirit.
The tour unfolds Friday, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6, with new hours from 4—8 p.m. both days. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 during the event weekend, and children 10 and under attend free. Tickets are available online, at the Washington Chamber of Commerce and through participating local retailers.
Five stops comprise this year’s route, each reflecting a different story of home, heritage and holiday celebration.
The residence of Rick and Virginia Bordwell, located at 1216 E. Adams Street, greets visitors with thoughtful design and intentional comfort.
Inspired by Prairie School architecture, the Bordwell home emphasizes energy efficiency and accessibility. Wide entrances, solar elements and distinctive brickwork set the architectural tone, while meaningful holiday decor throughout reinforces the theme of purpose blended with tradition.
Just a few blocks away, Hunter and Megan Craig’s home at 919 S. Fourth Avenue offers a different kind of nostalgia.
Their 1940s Tudor features vintage holiday charm blending renovated spaces with heirlooms and multigenerational decorations. The home’s newly updated bath and custom library provide sleek touches, yet the atmosphere remains rooted in warmth and history. Family treasures and timeless Christmas decorations help fill the rooms with joy and Christmas tradition making this stop feel like a nostalgic holiday postcard.
Downtown, GunnySac Designs at 104 W. Main Street adds a lively creative stop along the tour.
GunnySac Designs — known for unique gifts, art classes and playful experiences — will invite participants to make their own commemorative holiday ornament. The hands-on opportunity allows visitors to carry a tangible piece of the evening home, reinforcing the idea that holiday spirit can be as much about creativity as it is about decor. The shop’s atmosphere, rich with seasonal cheer, helps bring the energy of Washington’s business district into the story of the tour.
Just outside the businesses of town, Aurora Healing Gardens and Event Center showcases serenity and community wellness across its beautifully curated space.
Located at 1820 W. Main Street, Aurora offers mental health services, massage therapy, workshops, yoga classes and rental facilities for events. For the tour, the center will illuminate its acre of outdoor gardens despite the expected snow. A cozy fire, outdoor lights and festive touches will frame the experience before guests glimpse the seasonally decorated interior. The setting presents a quiet reminder that holiday beauty comes not just from ornamentation, but from gathering places and atmosphere.
Completing the tour is the home of Joel and Darci Witthoft at 1106 E. Van Buren Street, a 4,800-square-foot 1890 residence that has been lovingly cared for more than two decades.
Its five bedrooms, updated kitchen and historic architecture form the backdrop for graceful seasonal decor. The Witthofts’ home embodies warm holiday spirit layered through rooms with original character, a fitting showcase for Washington’s appreciation for legacy homes.
As always, the tour supports local holiday lighting efforts on the iconic town square. Presented by Connie Larsen, Realtor Broker Associate with Re/Max Affiliates, the annual event relies on community sponsors, volunteers and participating homeowners to keep the tradition vibrant.
At its core, the Candlelight Tour of Homes illustrates why small-town celebrations endure. By inviting residents inside private spaces, historic buildings and creative businesses, Washington turns lighted windows into shared experience. With expanded hours, glowing streets and distinctive decor, this weekend promises a luminous reminder that the season’s sparkle starts close to home.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
