From December 17 to December 18, 2:00pm to 9:00pm on both days, centuries-old churches of Perry, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, and Ste. Genevieve counties will throw open their doors for tours of their seasonal digs.
Santa is coming and so is the Christmas Country Church Tour. I know what you’re thinking: a church tour? No, it’s not touring during church services—actually, it’s the opposite. This is a self-guided holiday tour of several historical churches. Beyond magnificent architecture and history, you can enjoy the holiday decorations, Christmas trees, and a ton of holiday cheer. It’s free and no one tries to sell you anything. It’s designed for everyone and all faiths. I admit, I didn’t think it was going to be up my alley, but I was wrong—that sort of thing happens more than I’d like to admit. As the editor of this fine magazine, I am always amazed at the talent and history of the 573 region.
Beyond magnificent architecture and history, you can enjoy the holiday decorations, Christmas trees, and a ton of holiday cheer.
It’s free and no one tries to sell you anything.
From December 17 to December 18, 2:00pm to 9:00pm on both days, centuries-old churches of Perry, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, and Ste. Genevieve counties will throw open their doors for tours of their seasonal digs. This event attracts hundreds of people of all faiths and interests. It’s a historical event paired with holiday fun, full of smiling faces and Christmas cheer.
This event attracts hundreds of people of all faiths and interests. It’s a historical event paired with holiday fun, full of smiling faces and Christmas cheer.
Voted by AAA Magazine as a “Travel Treasure,” the County Church Tour inspires, delights, and rejuvenates all with the holiday spirit. This free, self-guided tour allows you to create your own unique and customized trip along the many participating locations scattered about the countryside of Perry County, Cape Girardeau County, Ste. Genevieve County, and Bollinger County.
Hit those less-traveled roads and tour at your leisure. You’ll admire century-old country churches, ranging from one-room wood clad buildings to brick and mortar masterpieces. Each church is draped in holiday decorations reflecting its traditions and culture, including English Roman Catholic, Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism, German Lutheranism, and others. The decorations and holiday greeters really bring the charm of each church to life. It’s just one of the many instances of grace and old-fashioned hospitality in rural America.
Among the many inspirational churches glowing with holiday cheer, you can enjoy the architectural brick and mortar masterpiece at the National Shine formally known as St. Mary's of the Barren. Or perhaps you’d like to take a walk around the Christmas tree display at the Lutheran Heritage Center & Museum. These are just a few of the twenty-four churches participating this season!
Traversing along peaceful roads and through lovely micro-towns begins to feel like a historical treasure hunt.
This is truly a remarkable countryside adventure. Traversing along peaceful roads and through lovely micro-towns begins to feel like a historical treasure hunt. Your prize? The unique and beautiful works of art and culture in rural Missouri.
So get out there and help 573 Magazine create a new holiday tradition this year at the Christmas Country Church Tour!
For more information or this season’s map, visit our Facebook page at visitperrycounty.com or contact Trish Erzfeld at 573-517-2069 for large tour groups.
IT’S ALL FREE. Get out there!
Comments