This December, step into the magic of a Southern Christmas as the Eufaula, Alabama Heritage Association proudly presents its 2025 Christmas Tour of Homes—an enchanting journey through time, tradition, and holiday splendor. Anchored by the iconic Shorter Mansion and historic Fendall Hall, the tour invites guests to experience the warmth and wonder of the season in some of Eufaula’s most treasured homes.  In addition to these grand landmarks, the tour includes beautifully decorated private residences, historic churches, and festive shops and boutiques throughout the downtown district.

Make the most of the weekend with a little retail therapy during the downtown district’s Mistletoe Market, where local shops and boutiques will be offering exceptional holiday sales and one-of-a-kind gifts perfect for the season.

   South’s finest historic homes

Held annually on the first Saturday in December, this beloved event invites guests to stroll through the South’s finest historic homes, each draped in the rich warmth of seasonal décor. Candlelight glows against antebellum facades, carols drift through crisp air, and the spirit of the holidays is alive in every room. With each step along Eufaula’s tree-lined streets and through its gracious mansions, visitors are transported into the nostalgia of Christmas past—while also admiring the timeless elegance of Christmas present. 

At the heart of the tour stands the Shorter Mansion, one of Eufaula’s most iconic and opulent homes. Constructed over five years beginning in 1902 by Eli Sims Shorter II and his wife, Wileyna Lamar Shorter, this architectural treasure is a centerpiece of the Seth Lore and Irwinton Historic Districts. Its stately presence and lavish holiday displays make it a must-see during the Christmas tour.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, the mansion continues to serve the community as a venue for weddings, showers, private dinners, and special events. To learn more or schedule a visit, explore www.shortermansion.com. The mansion is open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM.

Just a short distance away, visitors can explore Fendall Hall, one of Alabama’s most outstanding examples of Italianate architecture. With its preserved 19th-century design, Fendall Hall tells the story of Eufaula’s rise as a prominent port city. Owned by the Alabama Historical Commission and operated by the Friends of Fendall Hall, this exquisite home features striking ceiling and wall murals that reflect the refined tastes of its original residents.

The home’s interior has been meticulously restored to its 1880–1916 period, offering a stunning backdrop for its holiday presentation. Visit www.ahc.alabama.gov for more information. Fendall Hall is also open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $10 for adults, and free for Military Guests and children 12 and under. 

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The Christmas Tour of Homes complements Eufaula’s other cherished spring tradition, the Eufaula Pilgrimage—Alabama’s oldest tour of homes. Tickets and details for both events can be found at www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.  The Christmas Tour of Homes begins at 9:00 a.m. and concludes at 5:00 p.m.  A Christmas After Hours reception is held at Shorter Mansion from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. 

Join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025, as the lights twinkle, the wreaths are hung, and the South’s grandest homes open their doors in holiday celebration. Experience the warmth, beauty, and timeless charm of Christmas in historic Eufaula, Alabama—a place where the past and present are always in perfect harmony.