“The Message of Christmas”
Named Florida’s Best Holiday Home Tour by USA Today, Fodor’s and Bob Vila, the Stetson Mansion shares “The Message of Christmas” with guests for its 11th annual “Christmas Spectacular!”
As holiday happenings go, there is nothing quite like Florida’s most historic home decked out in opulent regalia for its annual Christmas celebration. Ten new over-the-top designer room themes are created each year for the 1886 Victorian mansion built in DeLand for iconic hat maker John B. Stetson. Believe in the Magic of Christmas and Dashing Through the Snow are just two of the ten room themes for this season.
The display features dozens of elaborate trees, over 50 elegant vignettes, and 30 reverent nativities from around the world. Each scene is composed of many layers and each has their own message. This year’s theme, “The Message of Christmas,” took 8 months to plan and 3 months to assemble. “I started decorating in August,” said owner/designer JT Thompson.
New this year is the free audio tour link for cell phones. Bring your own earbuds or headsets. This added feature is in addition to the written room descriptions link.
Earlier this year Tripadvisor put Stetson Mansion on its list of “Top 10 Attractions in the USA.” The award is well deserved. The attention to detail is quite evident when one tries to take in all the extravagant elements as you walk through this privately owned and occupied residence.
Reservations are required for tours which operate 2-6x daily through January 21, 2023. $15 for Youth ages 1-22 and $28 for Adults (plus booking fee and tax.) Parking is free. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. Reservations can be made at StetsonMansion.com. Stetson Mansion, 1031 Camphor Lane DeLand, Fl 32720
Holiday celebrations are just one reason to visit the West Volusia region, a destination with stories to tell, history to share and fun to have. Nestled between Orlando and Daytona, West Volusia encompasses fourteen communities with an eclectic collection of accommodations and attractions. The authenticity travelers are looking for is here. From top-rated downtown DeLand to the scenic St. Johns River, this is real Florida. And what variety it offers! Start your journey at www.visitwestvolusia.com.