MURFREESBORO – It’s a holiday tradition spanning nearly 30 years.

“Christmas in Wonderland” is the theme for the Murfreesboro Historical Association’s 2013 Candlelight Christmas Tour, scheduled for December 5 and 6.

Now in its 28th year, the Murfreesboro Historic District hosts a magical evening of Christmas cheer each year, with a different theme.

As illustrated by local artist, Twyla Duke, in the Tour’s original artwork, the historic Roberts-Vaughan House on Main Street, Murfreesboro, is ensconced in a magical snow globe with delights and adventures to be found inside.  The Roberts-Vaughan House, MHA Headquarters, is the first stop on a journey to a Christmas in Wonderland set in the Victorian-era (1837-1901).

Published in 1865, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland was written by English author Charles Lutwidge Dodgson under the pseudonym Lewis Carroll. The classic novel was reflective of the Victorian era, and the original manuscript was “A Christmas Gift to a Dear Child in Memory of a Summer’s Day” given to a young family friend named Alice Liddell.

The opulent and flamboyant style of the time will be featured on the Tour where such iconic characters as Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat and the Red Queen will participate to delight adults and children alike.

Visiting the beautifully decorated historic homes and buildings, guests will enjoy festive and delicious snacks and refreshments, musical entertainment and complimentary horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides on the way to a complete holiday dinner.

Tickets are now on sale and going fast. Please go to the MHA website, www.murfreesboronc.org, and visit the Candlelight Christmas page where you may order via PayPay, or call the MHA offices at 252-398-5922 for assistance.

Due to the number of visitors each year, the MHA requires advance purchase of tickets no later than Dec. 2. Note that the Tour runs from 4-8:30 p.m. each night, and the last tour departs at 6 p.m.  So, in the words of the White Rabbit —  Don’t be late, for this very important date!