As twinkling lights and festive cheer rapidly envelop the streets of Kingsport, the Allandale Mansion prepares to welcome the community for its annual Christmas Tours. On the calendar for December 7 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and December 8 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the event offers a glimpse into the mansion's holiday-ready grandeur. With tickets affably priced—$5 for attendees 12 and older, gratis for the younger ones—visitors have the chance to soak in the season’s joy woven through the mansion’s decor.
This year, the painstaking efforts of volunteers have artfully arranged each room around a central festive theme, promising to display a Christmas tree in every corner charismatically. While the tour is self-guided, volunteers can eagerly answer questions and share tales of Allandale’s rich history. Visitors are encouraged to take their time fully, with tours lasting anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour.
"We’re opening our doors once again, like we do every year, and inviting the public inside to enjoy our elegant and stunning decorations," Allandale Mansion Curator Rod Gemayel stated in a release obtained by The City of Kingsport. The event isn't just a feast for the eyes, as guests are to be treated to cookies and hot cider, serenaded by Harpist Martha Painter on December 7, and can even catch an appearance from Santa Claus on December 8.
Adding to the convenience, for the first time, advance tickets can be swiftly purchased online through the official Kingsport website or the Connect Kingsport app. This initiative is part of an effort to streamline the visitor experience seamlessly, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities easily. Also worth noting, the Allandale Mansion, a landmark that has decorated the city since 1953, is open for rental during the holiday season for those looking to host their events in this historically rich setting.
The mansion, which has catered to countless memories since being bequeathed to the City of Kingsport in 1969, also boasts of two barns, a picnic pavilion, enchanting man-made ponds, the Heron Dome, and an amphitheater. For additional information about the mansion, its history, or rental details, potential visitors can reach out directly at 229-9422.
