Lots to see in Lot 16
Annual Christmas House Tour this weekend
Arriving at Grand River Ranch gives you the sense of travelling to a different time.
The narrow, tree-lined lane opens to a wide view of grassy fields and water. Fences border a paddock with two horses grazing next to a cosy red-topped barn.
Those entering Heather Blouin’s barn are greeted by a welcoming committee — goats Winnie, Bronco and Heidi, along with the resident rooster, are always keen to see who’s visiting.
Blouin’s barn and animals will be prepared for company this weekend during the annual Lot 16 Christmas House Tour.
“It’s really nice to be able to contribute to our small community in this warm way,” she said. She’s planning greenery, twinkling lights and old-fashioned carols, but she’ll have to wait until Saturday to decorate. The boughs are just too tempting for her animals — who will eat them bare, given the opportunity.
Joan Gardiner is one of five organizers who put the house tours together each year. “There’s old farm houses, new homes and farms,” she said. “We try to do something different all the time.”
The committee recruits new homeowners each year and the Lot 16 Hall gets a new look, as well. “I don’t want to give too much away, but there will be elves,” said Gardiner, with a smile.
This year visitors have a fivehouse circuit from Miscouche, to Lot 16 into Grand River. Addresses of the homes are included with tickets, so the tour can be completed in any order. Many car pool in groups. Afterward, everyone meets up at the Lot 16 Hall for treats. The community supplies a small feast of sweets and finger foods. “The lunch is what everyone goes for,” Gardiner said.
The house tour is the main fundraiser for the hall and helps keep the heat and lights on. “We get such great support from the community,” she said, adding people age six to 96 come and enjoy themselves.
The tour is this Sunday, Dec. 2; storm date is Dec. 3. Homes will be open from 5 to 9 p.m., the hall from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $15, which includes access to the homes, the lunch and a chance to win door prizes.
Tickets are available by messaging the Lot 16 Hall Facebook page, or by calling Lou-Anne Wolfe at 902-436-1220.