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Cairo's Magnolia Manor taking reservations for Holiday House luncheons

By Linda Rush, The Southern

Monday, September 1, 2008 9:01 PM CDT

"Home for the holidays" is a popular theme, but when that "home" is Cairo's magnificent Magnolia Manor, the occasion is even more festive.

Reservations are being taken, even in summer's heat, for the Holiday House luncheons that include a tour of the mansion at 2700 Washington Ave. The luncheons are sponsored by the Cairo Historical Association.

Luncheons are Dec. 1 through Dec. 5, and include a sit-down meal with dessert and a tour of the house in its Christmas finery. Cost of the luncheon is $15 per person. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reservations will close Oct. 31. Reservations can be made by calling 734-0201 or Libby Morin at 734-1160. The non-refundable tickets will be mailed after the payment is received. Those sending payments are asked to include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Tickets must be presented at the door the day of the luncheon.

Those who are unable to attend one of the luncheons are invited to bring friends and family to Holiday House, which offers tours of Magnolia Manor from 1 to 4 p.m. daily from Nov. 28 (the Friday after Thanksgiving) through Sunday, Dec. 7.

"The holiday decorations at the mansion will be available for purchase as well as immediate possession," said Charles A. McGinness, president of the Cairo Historical Association.

If Christmas seems too long to wait for a visit to Magnolia Manor, the historical association also has planned a series of luncheons and special events, including a Mardi Gras Brunch on Feb. 22 that will include champagne and live entertainment.

The complete schedule of events for 2008 includes:

Luncheons on Tuesday, Sept. 2, and Tuesday, Oct. 7; a chicken and dumpling dinner Saturday, Oct. 18; Holiday House Nov. 28 through Dec. 7; and Holiday House luncheons Dec. 1 to 5.

The 2009 schedule includes the Mardi Gras Brunch on Feb. 22; luncheons April 7, May 5 and June 2; and a bridge luncheon on July 11.

linda.rush@thesouthern.com / 351-5079