Visitors to the 29th Annual Christmas Parlour Tour had a magical holiday experience Sunday December 14, 2008. The Homes on the tour were beautifully decorated in an array of fashions; from simple touches of nature to elaborate Victorian treasures and family heirlooms. There was something beautiful around each corner and a new idea for every taste.

Despite the winter weather forecasts, 400 visitors attended from Albany, Corvallis, Brownsville, Lincoln City, Newport , Eugene, Springfield and as far as Baker City. We assume our northern neighbors were held up with icy road conditions.

The weather held out until 6pm when the snow began and within 15 minutes Albany’s Historic Districts were covered with snow. The winter wonderland literally came to life with the glow of Christmas lights under a blanket of snow and the sounds of children laughing. (Perhaps because they knew there would be no school Monday. J)

The Annual Christmas Parlour tour has never been cancelled or postponed and after 29 years, 2008 proved to be a testament to that. The Interior Home Tour Committee would like to thank the homeowners who graciously shared their holiday spirit, so many who helped with the tour, and the downtown businesses who stayed open on a blustery Sunday afternoon. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend the 31 st Annual Summer Tour on Saturday, July 25, 2009. Proceeds from the two annual tours go directly to projects in the Historic Community.

Thank you and Happy New Years!