Five North Augusta homes have the halls decked and are ready for the 36th annual North Augusta Christmas Tour of Homes on Dec. 6-7.
The tour includes homes in Hammond’s Ferry, The Rapids and The Colony as well as on West Forest Avenue. The Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta is also a special tour stop.
Nestled in the charming Rapids subdivision is the traditional brick home of Barry and Frances Koon, which is a “perfect representation of warmth and Southern charm. As avid entertainers, Barry and Frann cherish the opportunity to bring their large family of children and grandchildren together, especially during the holidays. To create more space for these gatherings, they added a stunning sunroom and casual eating area, enhancing both comfort and charm,” according to a news release from the Xi Beta Gamma Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority which sponsors the annual tour.
In Hammond’s Ferry is the home of Joel and Lynda Ozburn, which has multiple themed trees including the “travel tree” with ornaments from more than 20 countries as well as a “Wizard of Oz” tree which highlights their youngest’s daughter’s love of the story. The home is also adorned with nutcrackers in a nod to the couple’s oldest daughter who loved ballet.
Not far from the Ozburn home is the Hammond’s Ferry home of Kyle West and James Vance.
“The homeowners enjoy decorating their home for every holiday, but Christmas is a time where they do a little extra. Each room is decorated in its own theme and style, but the Christmas spirit can be felt the minute you walk through the front door,” the news release said.
Gregory and Sara Brown’s custom-design home is in the heart of downtown North Augusta. The owner of Designer House Plans, Gregory Brown has designed many homes within the CSRA and took special care to detail when designing his own. It has a modern take on a traditional design with its brick features, large windows and earth-tone colors, the release said.
“The Browns especially enjoy visits from family and friends during the Christmas season as their home features warm sounds, smells and sights of Christmas,” the release said.
Charles and Nancy Huey Eubank moved to the Colony in 2019 after spending 26 years on a cattle farm in Johnston. Their Summerville-style home features many nods to England including a set of historic gates which once protected an English bank vault.
And the final stop on the tour is the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta is a non-profit whose mission is to provide an educational venue to showcase and promote the arts and regional history.
The tour will be from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Dec. 6, and from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Dec. 7. The Christmas Tour of Homes began in 1988 as a fundraiser for North Augusta High School students as well as “an enjoyable occasion for the community and out-of-town visitors. Beta Sigma Phi uses most of the proceeds from the Tour of Homes to fund the scholarships to North Augusta High School students with a contribution also to the Arts and Heritage Center. Since beginning the tour, Xi Beta Gamma has given approximately $217,000 to high school graduates to further their education,” the release said.
Tickets may be purchased in advance until 2 p.m. on December 6. Everyone touring, including children in arms, must have a ticket. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Arts and Heritage Center, CommuniGraphics and Parks Pharmacy in North Augusta, Consign Design in Martinez, and Plum Pudding in Aiken for $25. Tickets are also available at www.natourofhomes.org for $28, which includes a $3 convenience fee. Tickets may be purchased on tour days for $30 at any tour stop. Cash or check is required for ticket purchases at businesses and tour stops.
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