Ainsley House -- The Place To Be During Holidays

CAMPBELL, CA -- Tis the season to plan ahead for that joyous time of year -- in particular, at the Ainsley House to get in the mood, even if the thermometer reads 70+ degrees outside.

How about a stroll around the historic house with rooms decorated in classic themes such as: "A Christmas Carol," "Twas the Night Before Christmas" and "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas?"

Docent-led tours of the Ainsley House all adorned with the festive decor will be offered from noon to 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 15 to Dec. 16. Tour admission is $10 for adults (age 18-64); $8 for seniors (age 65+); and $6 for youth (age 7-17). Museum members get in free.

The holiday tours bring out the "Season's Stories" through participating organizations, volunteers and businesses.

If you want to walk away with a remembrance during tour hours, the Holiday Boutique located in the Carriage House will offer gifts, ornaments, jewelry and scarves for sale.

The Open House events provide an up-close-and-personal view of life during this magical time to see the house lit up at night, with live music piped in the living room.

The Museum Foundation's annual holiday fundraiser, Holiday Teas and Tours, takes place on Nov. 28, 29 and 30; as well as Dec. 1, 2, and 5-9. The tea menu includes finger sandwiches, champagne, a special Ainsley blend tea and other tasty treats. Also slated are a daily raffle, antique cars, holiday photos and a grand prize raffle. Admission is $60 for the general public and $50 for museum members. The proceeds will be earmarked to fund education programs and exhibits at the Campbell Historical Museum. Reservations may be made https://www.campbellmuseums.com.

The Campbell Museums are operated by the city and reflect the colorful history of the Santa Clara Valley and region.

The Ainsley House was built in 1925 in the style of an old English Tudor Cotswold cottage. The home and carriage house were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

--Image courtesy of Campbell Museums