Started in 1997, one of the great traditions in Bedford is the Holiday House Tour. Hosted by Suzanne & Company, it’s a popular way to get into the holiday spirit all while helping Bedford families in need.

The original house tour featured residents opening up their houses and displaying their decorations. During the pandemic, the Holiday House tour moved outside and was reimagined with lots of fun and activities to get you in a festive mood. Now that the pandemic is behind us, many people are anxious to return to the original tradition.

This year, people get the best of both tour styles. The original version of the House Tour, when people open their houses, will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10 (Adults only, please).

Then when the sun goes down, the lights outside will twinkle and shine and the next level of fun begins. Horse-drawn carriage rides, pictures with Santa, a reindeer scavenger hunt, hot chocolate, and more are planned.

In the spirit of the Holiday season, 100 percent of the money raised goes back to helping Bedford families in need. Last year, more than $5,000 was given to local families struggling in town.

Suzanne & Company works with the Bedford police, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the school counselors to identify residents who may be struggling. Suzanne said, “There is a real need that many people don’t know about right here in Bedford. 100 percent of the money raised from this event goes right back to the community.”

There are many ways to participate and help out, from buying a map to adding your house to making a donation – all help.

Bonus: As a way of saying “thank-you,” go to the Chip-in Farm on Hartwell Road on Dec. 10 and get a dozen free eggs when you show your tour map. You must get there before 5 p.m.

Here is what you need to know: