🎅🏻 Home for the Holidays at Ford House: Friends & Media Preview
Friends & Media Preview
Home for the Holidays at Ford House
Saturday, November 29 from 5:30—8 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: This is a One-Mile Outdoor Walking Experience
Home for the Holidays at Ford House is a one-mile outdoor walking experience (plus the Main Residence tour) over varied and uneven terrain — including pavement, wood chips, gravel, and grass. Some sections may be more challenging for wheelchairs, strollers, or walkers.
The walk (not including the Main Residence) can take 35 minutes to an hour, depending on how often you stop along the way. The route is self-paced, but please be prepared for outdoor conditions and extended walking. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
As a reminder, shuttles do not operate during this event. The road is closed at night for pedestrian traffic only.
Experience the joy of the season with Home for the Holidays at Ford House, a serene, one-mile walk through lighted gardens, historic architecture, and the elegantly decorated Main Residence.
This special evening is an exclusive preview for Friends of Ford House and their guests, as well as members of the media. It is a first look at the season’s lights, music, and décor, offering a chance to experience the event in a more intimate setting before it opens to the public.
Your evening begins at the Visitor Center Plaza, leading to Josephine’s Playhouse, aglow with cheerful lights and festive music. The path continues through the Formal Garden and above the Rose Garden, offering beautiful winter views. Along the way, trees, gardens, and historic buildings sparkle with lights, and the Christmas train circles inside the Recreation Building.
Inside the Main Residence, explore the first floor at your own pace, adorned with Eleanor Ford’s signature understated holiday elegance. Afterward, visit Santa’s station in the original laundry room for a smile and photo.
The route then winds along Maple Lane through towering trees and past the quiet Meadow before returning to the Visitor Center. Designed for all ages, Home for the Holidays at Ford House offers a calm, heartwarming escape from the season’s bustle, perfect for making lasting memories together.
Scenes from Home for the Holidays
Event Map
Subject to Change. Tap to download as a PDF.
Guest Guide
Parking
- Enter through Main Gate and park in the Visitor Center lot.
- Please arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time.
- When departing, please exit through North Gate.
No Shuttle Service
- For guest safety, shuttle service is not available, as the walking paths will be actively used by pedestrians throughout the event.
Concessions
- Concessions are available on the walk. Please visit the Concessions tent for drinks, snacks, and other goodies.
Friends Walks
- Friend Walks will end at 2 p.m. to allow the changeover to Home for the Holidays which begins at 3 p.m.
Weather
- Home for the Holidays is a rain, snow, or shine event, and guests are encouraged to bundle up and dress warmly for this outdoor holiday excursion.
Additional Helpful info
- Children must remain with parents/guardians at all times.
- Dogs are not permitted on the grounds during Home for the Holidays at Ford House.
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Last entry: 8:15 pm
ADMISSIONS
- Friend Adult: $18
- Friend Child (age 3-17): $10
- Public Adult: $22
- Public Child (age 3-17): $12
- Child (age 0-2): Free
- Friend Adult: $18
- Friend Child (age 3-12): $10
- Public Adult: $22
- Public Child (age 3-12): $12
- Child (age 0-2): Free
Refund Policy
All ticket sales, memberships, and other purchases are non-refundable. Refunds will only be issued if Ford House closes or cancels an event. In such cases, guests with tickets or reservations will be notified.
Accessibility
At Ford House, we are committed to ensuring all guests can enjoy our events. If you have any questions or need additional information about accessibility before booking your tickets, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at info@fordhouse.org or call 313-884-4222, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Enhance your visit!
Enhance your experience by becoming a Friend of Ford House where you’ll enjoy exclusive perks like discounts on tickets, dining, and shopping, all while supporting this historic estate. Or reserve a table at The Continental for a perfect lunch or dinner before the event. And review Ford House rules and policies to make the most of your visit.
