Christmas at Beauvoir welcomed more than 400 visitors last night, its best night since opening earlier this month, and organizer Andi Oustalet expects huge crowds tonight and Sunday thanks to the entertainment and holiday environment at the national landmark in west Biloxi.
“It was huge last night,” Oustalet said. “It was easily over 400 people, and we’re asking people to bundle up and enjoy a great band tonight, the Magic Carpet Baggers, featuring Brooks Hubbert and George Mason, and then Rosco Bandana on Sunday evening.”
“We know the weather is turning a little more chilly, but that just adds to the holiday flavor,” Oustalet said. “We have heaters under the tents, gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate. Bundle up and come on out.”
Since Nov. 8, when Christmas at Beauvoir kicked off with 600 guests at a Festival of Trees gala, the 52-acre estate has been averaging about 120 people each Thursday through Sunday, when the west beach site is open from 5 to 9. Visitors are greeted by Christmas carolers, period-garbed storytellers, crafts, Father Claus, lighted paths, tours of the Davis house with period decorations, and, of course, 100 lighted oak trees throughout the beachfront portion of the property. A trackless train also provides rides through much of the 52-acre estate.
Admission to Christmas at Beauvoir is $20, with $12 tickets available for seniors, children and military. Those under 5 are admitted for free.
“I know some people have questioned the price, but all along I have said that it’s less expensive than Bellingrath Gardens in Mobile or City Park in New Orleans – and let’s not forget, Beauvoir is a national landmark. We had a gentleman come through last night with his wife and four children, and he said it was worth every penny.”
See the photos
Opening-night gala:To see dozens of images from the Festival of Trees Thursday evening at Beauvoir, click here.
Behind-the-scenes photos: Months of planning went into Christmas at Beavuoir. To see a collection of behind-the-scenes photos, click here.
Beauvoir site: To visit the Beauvoir web site, where you can find a detailed Christmas at Beauvoir schedule and other information about the national landmark, click here.
