November 26, 2010
Following state tradition, Mansion to be open for candlelight tours on Dec. 3 and 4; Missouri Christmas trees for Mansion and lawn to arrive Nov. 29
Governor, First Lady announce details for Christmas celebrations at Missouri Governor's Mansion
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - In keeping with state tradition, Gov. Jay Nixon and First Lady Georganne Nixon will welcome Missourians to the Governor's Mansion for candlelight tours on Dec. 3 and 4.
During the tours, visitors will have the opportunity to view decorations in several rooms of the historic brick building, which has been the home of Missouri Governors since 1871. This year's decorations will feature a variety of traditional, old-fashioned and natural items, including greenery, poinsettias, fruits and nuts, glass ornaments and white lights. Volunteer docents will be on hand to help describe historical features throughout the Mansion.
Candlelight tours will run from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3, and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4. Prior to the tours on Friday, Gov. and Mrs. Nixon will welcome visitors to the Mansion grounds for the lighting of the Mansion and an outdoor Christmas tree; music for that program will begin at 6 p.m. After the tours on Saturday afternoon, visitors can stay in downtown Jefferson City to enjoy the Jaycees' annual Christmas parade.
Youth choirs from across Missouri will perform during the tours. Choirs performing at the Mansion include the Boonville High School Choir, the Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School Choir, the Sedalia High School Choir, the Marshall High School Choir, the Jefferson City High School Chorale, the Simonsen Ninth Grade Center Choir and the California Public Schools Choir.
As in past years, visitors also will be able to see two special Missouri Christmas trees at the Mansion. The Missouri Department of Conservation coordinates the selection, cutting and delivery of the trees, which will arrive at 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 29.
The Missouri Governor's Mansion is located at 100 Madison St., Jefferson City, Mo. For the candlelight tours, visitors will enter the Mansion through the front gate on Madison Street.
