Christmas Open House tour to raise money for community programs

DUNCAN — The Aequalis Study Club will look to instill Christmas cheer and spirit within the community during its 2023 Christmas Open House from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3.

Kelsey Stone, Aequalis Study Club member, said the Christmas House Tour is one of the clubs largest annual fundraisers for nearly 40 years.

“Last year we raised around $7,500,” she said.

Proceeds from the event will go directly back to the community to help benefit Aequalis’ causes and local charities through providing scholarships, as well as donating to nonprofits around the area.

According to Stone, club members look forward to seeing everyone at the yearly event, as well as seeing all the fresh and unique ways the homeowners decorate their houses.

“It is such a fun afternoon for everyone involved,” she said. “It sparks great inspiration for Christmas decor.”

During the event, the club will host a raffle for a 52-inch tall nutcracker valued at $750.

Raffle tickets for the nutcracker are $5 each and can be purchased from any Aequalis member or at The Hemphill Home on Sunday. According to Stone, the drawing will occur after the Christmas Open House and ticket holders don’t need to be present to win.

The event will feature the homes of John and Alexis Campbell at 908 Hillcrest Drive, The Emerald Bungalow at 1061 North 8th Street and the home of Mahlon and Nancy Hemphill at 2202 Oak Hollow Road, which features the Sweet Shoppe and raffle item.

“The Sweet Shoppe features homemade baked goods by the members,” Stone said.

The Aequalis Study Club began in 1974 “with the purpose of working together to reach out to others.”

Some of the projects, groups and activities the club participates in and helps support include providing academic scholarships and funding for Project Graduation, Toy Shop of Duncan, United Way of Stephens County, Safe Center, Rotary Club’s Auction, Chisholm Trail Hospice, Gabriel’s House, Food for Kids, Beautiful Day and OneDuncan.

This event is for adults only and no photography will be allowed during the tour.

Tickets for the event are $8 in advance or $10 at the door of any of the houses.

Advance tickets for the tour can be purchased at the following business in Downtown Duncan: Jeanne Kay Designs, Eclectic Echo, 3 French Hens, Distinctive Décor or from any Aequalis member.