The public is invited to re-live the joys of an old-fashioned Christmas as they tour historic homes, inns, and Churches and other historic buildings from 5 to 9 pm on December 13, 2008.

An annual tradition hosted by St. Marys Convention & Visitors Bureau  partnering, with the Historic Preservation Commission; this year’s tour includes some sites that the public might not ordinarily have access to such as the old city jail in City Hall, the Historic St. Marys Railroad Depot.

Some of the city’s most beautiful bed and breakfasts and homes will be on the tour this year as well, each uniquely decorated in the fashion of their era. The Bachlott House (home of the National Park Service), the Stotesbury Johnson House (home of Family Matters), six private homes, two bed and breakfast inns, and five churches will open their doors for the event—many serving refreshments.

Carolers will further enhance the Norman Rockwell experience, and other entertainment includes bagpipes and hand bells.

Transportation between tour stops will be provided by golf carts hosted by members of the St. Marys Golf Cart Association , the St. Marys First Baptist Church bus, and the new Convention & Visitors Bureau trolley.

Tickets may be purchased at the St. Marys Welcome Center, 406 Osborne Street, Sheila’s Hallmark, The Goodbread House, Cumberland Inn & Suites, Spencer House, French Quarter, Once Upon a Bookseller, and at the ITT Department at Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base for $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the tour.

This year’s Candlelight Tour is dedicated to the memory of St. Marys’ beloved resident and history lover Ann Stacy. Proceeds will benefit the Historic Preservation Commission of St. Marys and support tourism development by St. Marys Convention & Visitors Bureau.

For more information about the tour, call 912-882-4000. For information about St. Marys, visit www.stmaryswelcome.com.