The annual Oaklands Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes, an enchanting tour of historic Murfreesboro houses and landmarks, returns on Saturday, Dec. 1. The tour, from 4–8 p.m., features beautiful private residences, and as always, the historic Oaklands Mansion.

In addition to the tour, Oaklands Mansion will host a Holiday Marketplace in Maney Hall. A selection of local artisans and craftspeople will feature their wares for holiday shoppers. Admission to the marketplace is included with tickets to the Candlelight Tour of Homes. Also, see a live nativity displayed by Southeast Baptist Church’s Bethlehem Marketplace. Baker’s Dozen Cookie Cabin, Cousins Maine Lobster and Something Southern Food Truck will offer hot beverages and food.

“The Candlelight Tour of Homes is a Middle Tennessee tradition 35 years in the making,” said Oaklands Mansion Executive Director James Manning. “Tour goers can begin at any location and, if they have not already purchased a ticket in advance at oaklandsmansion.org, they can buy one at any home on the tour.”

Stops along the holiday tour include:

– Oaklands Mansion & Cottage, 900 N. Maney Ave.
– Holiday Marketplace at Oaklands Visitors Center, 901 N. Maney Ave.
– Mr. Corey Williams, 450 Roberts St.
– Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Bell – Big Holly, 718 N. Maney Ave.
– Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Bell – Big Holly’s Little House, 700 N. Maney Ave.
– Mr. & Mrs. Rhea Cole, 619 N. Maney Ave.
– Mr. & Mrs. Richard Ventiegham, 603 N. Maney Ave.
– Mr. & Mrs. Daren Chambley, 525 N. Maney Ave.
– Dreamingincolor, 504 N. Maney Ave.
– Ransom School House, 717 N. Academy St.

The cornerstone of the tour is the grand Oaklands Mansion. At its peak, Oaklands was the center of a 1,500-acre plantation and one of the most elegant homes in Rutherford County. Since that time, Oaklands has seen dramatic changes. Following the Civil War, it deteriorated from a majestic mansion to virtual ruins and, in the 1950s, its very existence was threatened. A group of concerned ladies created Oaklands Association in 1959 to save the mansion from the wrecking ball when. Since that time, the Association has worked to restore Oaklands to its original splendor and preserve its unique history.

The proceeds of the Candlelight Tour of Homes go toward the continuing preservation of this historic treasure. Purchase tickets at oaklandsmansion.org or at any home on the tour the night of the tour.