Let the fa-la-la-ing begin

The Blue Springs Historical Society will add to the holiday cheer by hosting its annual historic homes tour on Friday, Nov. 28 and Saturday, Nov. 29.

Seven homes around town have been selected for this year’s event, traditionally held the weekend following Thanksgiving. Each home represents a precise era, and all are decked in holiday finery.

Friday evening will mark the special candlelight tour from 5 until 9 p.m.

The yearly happening casts a magical glow as guests enjoy the company of friends in the inspiring surroundings of some of Blue Springs most striking residences.

The Dillingham-Lewis Museum is always a favorite stop on the tour to enjoy a look back in time.

Saturday’s tour will be hosted from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets are available the day of the event at the museum or in advance at Petals and Potpourri, The Yellow Strawberry, Soda Shop on Main Street, and Vintage Daisy in Grain Valley. Tickets are $8 until Wednesday or $10 on the day of the event.

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The city of Raytown will kick off the holiday season shortly after Thanksgiving with a festive lighting ceremony at Downtown Pocket Park.

The Dec. 3 event will evoke the glad tidings of the season with a visit from Santa and traditional holiday carols. Guests are invited to a reception hosted by UMB Bank following the 6:30 p.m. lighting to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and listen to music provided by the Raytown Community Band.

The yuletide celebration also serves as an opportunity to visit the familiar and fresh businesses populating Raytown’s central retail district.

Captured among the city’s many family-owned businesses is a unique charm. The open house will include a variety of family activities and enjoyments.

Visitors may take the opportunity to discover Raytown’s significant history with a stop by its historical museum or experience an authentic old-fashioned soda fountain at Fox Drugs.

With Mother Nature expected to add a seasonal chill to the celebrations, Benetti’s will welcome passers by with live music and make-your-own S’mores.

Raytown Christian Church will be the site of a live nativity presentation as well as one of several locations where revelers can deposit non-perishable goods for REAP, the Raytown Emergency Assistance Program. Embracing the true spirit of the holiday, festival organizers are encouraging guests to share their bounty by dropping off canned goods at the church, the Raytown Historical Museum, The Tint Zone, or Raytown Plaza.

A complete schedule of the evening’s merriment is available at many business locations in downtown Raytown or by contacting the Chamber of Commerce at www.raytownchamber.com or 816-353-8500.