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What is the Christmas Home Tour?

The Christmas Home Tour, sponsored annually since 1966 by First Congregational United Church of Christ, celebrates the opening of Longmont's holiday season. Every year, three homes are selected, decorated in holiday themes, and open for visitors. In addition, a craft fair and bake sale are held at the church on the days of the tour. All work for the Christmas Home Tour is done by volunteers who are members of the church and the community with proceeds benefiting many Longmont non-profit agencies, like The OUR Center and Tiny Tim, as well as the church’s own mission efforts and other programs. In recent years, approximately $15,000 to $17,000 has been raised each year and the proceeds are distributed after expenses are covered.

Planning is underway for the 2009 Christmas Home Tour. In 2008 the focus was on the church's values of sustainability and locally produced materials. Home decorations featured local artists' works along with an increased variety of items handmade by artisans from developing countries.

The Christmas Home Tour is typically held the week following the Thanksgiving holiday.

When is this year's tour?

The 45th Annual Christmas Home Tour, 2010, is Friday and Saturday, December 3-4 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1500 9th Ave. in Longmont, CO.

Where do you get tickets?

Tickets will be available on November 9 at these locations: The Daily Times-Call, Longmont Ace Hardware, Buzz Coffee, Two Dog Diner in Prospect, Longmont Meals on Wheels at the Senior Center, The Orange Door, First Congregational United Church of Christ office and from any church member. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 on tour days, and $2 for children under 10 at the door on the days of the tour. On tour days tickets can be purchased at any of the homes on the tour or at the church in the Fellowship Hall.

What is at the church on tour days?

In Fellowship Hall, a tea table with coffee, tea, punch and homemade pastries will be available. Also offered are a bake sale table with baked goods and other items made by church members, and tables of crafts by local crafters. Crafters rent space at $40.00 for a table and adjacent space for the two-day period. For nearly the entire life of the Home Tour, handmade goods from developing countries have also been sold at the Home Tour, with proceeds going to the artisans instead of marketers. Beginning in 1969, Church World Service was the source of these goods. Starting about 1983, the group became known as SERRV.

How can I get involved or volunteer to help?

To join the Home Tour team call Dede Alspaugh (303-776-9729) or Judy Miller (303-651-3764) or Amy Doyle (720-652-9873). There's something for everyone!

Volunteers are needed to work as hosts in the homes and at the church in Fellowship Hall. Two to three hour shifts are available on either day from 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

How can I be part of the craft fair at the church?

If you are interested in being part of this year's event featuring hand-made items contact Linda Tate (303-466-2616).

Which non-profits benefit from the Christmas Home Tour?