Hailey
The holiday season in Columbia felt brighter and more joyful this weekend as the Missouri Symphony League hosted its annual Holiday Homes Tour.
Four beautifully decorated homes opened their doors to visitors, giving everyone a chance to enjoy warm lights, festive designs, and family traditions.
This popular event not only spreads Christmas cheer but also helps support the growth of musical arts in mid-Missouri. Many families, friends, and community members joined the tour to celebrate the holiday spirit together.
What Is the Missouri Symphony League?
The Missouri Symphony League is a group of dedicated music lovers who work to support musical performances and arts programs in mid-Missouri. The money collected from the Holiday Homes Tour goes directly into the general operating fund of the Missouri Symphony.
This helps the organization continue offering concerts, educational programs, and community events throughout the year.
Homeowners Decorate Using Their Own Family Traditions
Ed Hanson, the President of the Missouri Symphony League, shared that while the League hosts the tour, each homeowner is fully responsible for their own decorations. The League encourages families to decorate using items they already have — the decorations that carry personal memories and traditions.
According to Hanson, every home reflects the personality and story of the people living in it. These decorations often include old ornaments, handmade crafts, and items passed down through generations.
“Every house has its own style,” Hanson said. “The homeowners are responsible for decorating, and we encourage them to use the decorations they’ve always traditionally used.”
This personal touch is one of the main reasons visitors enjoy the tour each year.
Visitors Enjoy a Festive Weekend Experience
Many people traveled from house to house over the weekend to enjoy the festive atmosphere. One of the visitors was Steve Vance, a former real estate agent who has spent years touring houses. He was especially impressed by the home of Rachel and AW Smith on West Stewart Road.
“This particular house on Stewart Road is A-plus-plus,” Vance said. “I have seen thousands of houses, and I have never seen a better vintage house than this one.”
Visitors enjoyed the chance to take a peaceful walk, admire decorations, and share holiday moments with their loved ones. Some families toured all four homes in one day, while others took breaks for hot chocolate and conversation.
A Long-Standing Community Tradition Since 1984
The Holiday Homes Tour has been a part of Columbia’s holiday traditions since 1984. Each year, different hosts open their homes or buildings to the public. Some hosts have participated more than once, such as the Ronald McDonald House.
Over the years, several well-known community members and institutions have joined the event.
These include former Mizzou football coach Gary Pinkel and his wife Missy, former Mizzou basketball coach Norm Stewart and his wife Virginia, the State Historical Society of Missouri, Columbia College, and Stephens College.
Their participation has helped make the event even more special for residents.
Tour Schedule
| Day | Timings |
|---|---|
| Saturday | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
| Sunday | 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. |
Why People Love the Holiday Homes Tour
Hanson believes the tour is enjoyable for anyone who loves the Christmas season. Many people visit with friends, bring their entire family, or make a full afternoon adventure out of it. Even if visitors cannot complete all four homes at once, they can split the tour, enjoy a warm drink, and return later.
The combination of holiday joy, beautiful homes, and community spirit makes the tour a favorite yearly event.
The Holiday Homes Tour hosted by the Missouri Symphony League brings together tradition, creativity, and community. Each decorated home tells a unique story that reflects the family living inside. Visitors enjoy a warm and joyful experience while supporting local musical arts.
This long-standing tradition has become an important part of Columbia’s holiday celebrations, offering inspiration, happiness, and togetherness during the festive season.