BROOKFIELD - The Christmas spirit is evident in Brookfield this week as people are opening their homes to share decorating tips for the holidays.
The community is hosting the 16th annual Brookfield Christmas home tours Friday and Saturday.
Brookfield's Judy Matheson, an event organizer, said the two-day event gets people into the holiday spirit.
"It's the kick off to Christmas and this is also a way of giving back because we give to the Christmas Index Program through this," said Matheson.
"People enjoy decorating their homes and people enjoy going to see them," said Matheson, adding the festive event traditionally attracts about 200 people.
This year's tours include three homes on Friday and Saturday between 6 and 9 p.m.: Duane and Lorna Rath, 463 Shortts Lake West Rd.; Gordon and Doreen Frank, 99 Hwy. 289; and Russell and Bev Bradley and Heather Jamieson, 209 Shortts Lake West Rd.
Knox United Church, on Hwy. 289, is also offering a tea and craft fair and free chauffer services to the home tours.
Another popular stop is at Forest Glen Green House on 664 Brentwood Rd. Between 2 and 4:30 p.m. on both days visitors can admire 100,000 poinsettias at the green house. Refreshments will also be served and poinsettias can be purchased.
In addition, the Brookfield Railway Station and Heritage Society will be decorated with trees and stockings with a nutcracker theme.
Supper will be offered both nights during two settings, 4:30 and 5:15 p.m., for $7 each.
A silent auction of nutcrackers at the train station will also be held to benefit the Christmas Index.
Tickets for the home tour festivities cost $10 and can be purchased at MacQuarries in Truro and Brookfield, at participating homes and Knox United Church. More information can be obtained by calling 673-3448 or 673-2812.
