Every other year in mid-April, just as spring flowers are in their prime, Edenton opens its fragrant gardens and beautiful homes to welcome throngs of visitors during the Edenton Pilgrimage of Historic Homes.
This biennial event hosted by the Edenton Woman’s Club will take place this year on April 14th and 15th, so you’ll need to secure your tickets now. Tickets are valid for both tour days.
During this two-day extravaganza, you will be treated to numerous special events, including guest speakers, colonial cooking demonstrations, and carriage rides.
In addition, you’ll get exclusive access to some of Edenton’s most prestigious properties during a self-guided walking tour. In fact, over twenty historic properties, ranging from the 1700’s to the early 1900’s, are part of this year’s tour.
Volunteers, dressed in colonial costumes, welcome visitors into these private homes, which are decorated with period furniture, family heirlooms, and historic mementos.
While you meander through each home, docents will explain the unique history and architecture of the dwelling, often highlighting the historic role the home has played in Edenton’s history.
Beyond the windows and doors, you will glimpse well-manicured lawns, blossoming gardens, and bubbling fountains, which you are welcome to explore and enjoy at your leisure.
During April, cherry blossoms, daffodils, tulips, buttercups, roses, and jonquils are just some of the colorful blooms you’ll find in these gardens.
Also be on the look-out for a few Edenton Heirlooms, including the delicate Summer Snowflake and beautiful Lenten Rose in the colonial revival gardens at the Cupola House.
In addition to private homes, tour guides are stationed throughout several of Edenton’s historic buildings and landmarks, including the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitor Center, the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, and the Cupola House and Heritage Gardens.
On the mornings of tour days, visitors will be greeted with complimentary coffee and donuts at the Visitors Center, while additional tickets for a catered lunch at the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse may be purchased in advance. St. Anne’s Catholic Church (near the Visitors Center) will be hosting a spaghetti dinner fundraiser; tickets may be purchased at the door.
Tickets for the Pilgrimage may be purchased online, in person, or by phone, and may be picked up at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitor Center the week of the tour. You will also be given a map, detailing the homes and buildings on the tour.
To fully immerse yourself in Edenton’s springtime charm, consider booking a room at one of our town’s premier B&B properties.
You will be pampered and enjoy close proximity to many of the homes, gardens, and public buildings open during the Pilgrimage Tour.
More information and details about the tour and numerous special events can be found here. We hope you’ll join us during the Edenton Pilgrimage where you’ll experience Southern hospitality and charm at its best!
