Columbia, CA…Columbia State Historic Park and Friends of Columbia are proud to present this year’s Lamplight Tour, “The Grand Holiday Raffle!” Participants will be guided through the decorated town during the walking play while listening to snippets of the town’s happenings. Docent-led Lamplight Tours will run Friday, December 2nd and Saturday, December 3rd beginning at 5:30pm and leaving every 15 minutes. Tickets are on sale now.

This year’s program titled, “The Grand Holiday Raffle!” revolves around the year 1855 where a raffle brings together the local citizens to help a destitute immigrant woman and her children newly arrived in Columbia. Participants will be led by kerosene lantern down the streets of Columbia to visit various vignettes in a walking play. Purchase tickets at http://www.friendsofcolumbiashp.com/lamplight.html.

A little history and, of course, a little gossip, make this year’s performance sure to be a hit! The tour will end with music, dancing, and refreshments in Angelo’s Hall.

Each vignette was created by the Docent Archives and Library Committee with input from other volunteers and park staff. The script takes hours of time and thoughtfulness to create a work that all ages and backgrounds can enjoy during the holiday season.

In addition to the Lamplight Tours offered this year, visitors can also add to their Columbia evening experience by riding a carriage through town. Rides will be available from 5:00-7:30pm both Friday and Saturday nights during the Lamplight Tours.

Tickets for the family-friendly event and carriage rides may be purchased online at www.friendsofcolumbiashp.com. Tours leave every 15 minutes beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are adult (18 and over) $25, Junior (9-17) $15, and children 8 and under are free. Carriage rides tickets are $5 per person.

Lamplight weekend packages are also available and include a one night stay in the City or Fallon Hotel, $50 dining credit for the City Hotel Restaurant, two tickets for the Lamplight Tour, and a bottle of wine. Prices are per couple: $165/Parlor Room and $199/Balcony Room. We will take care of making your reservations for dinner and the tour. Call the friendly front desk staff at (209) 532-1479 to book your package today! Or visit www.friendsofcolumbiashp.com to book your package and to view the City Hotel Lamplight Package Menu.

All proceeds from the event and weekend packages will benefit the cooperating association Friends of Columbia in the funding of interpretive and educational events and programs at Columbia State Historic Park.

For questions about the event, please contact (209) 588-9128, visit www.parks.ca.gov/columbia or stop in at the Columbia museum on Main Street.