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Cairo group making plans for holidays at Magnolia Manor

By Linda Rush
The Southern

As Southern Illinois swelters in late-summer heat, the Cairo Historical Association already is making plans for the Christmas season at Magnolia Manor.

In fact, reservations for this year's Holiday House at the historic mansion already are being sent in, said Charles A. McGinness, president of the historical association.

Luncheons will be available Nov. 29-Dec. 3 at a cost of $18 per person. The price includes a sit-down meal with dessert, and a tour of the house in its Christmas finery. As always, the decorations will be available for purchase and immediate possession, McGinness said.

Reservations for the luncheons will close on Saturday, Oct. 30. Seating is limited and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. To make a reservation call Magnolia Manor at 618-734-0201 or Libby Morin at 618-734-1160.

Non-refundable tickets will be mailed after payment is received. When sending in payments, people are asked to include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Tickets must be presented at the door the day of the luncheon.

Doors will open at 11 a.m.; guests may enter the house at that time and be seated at their reserved tables. The meal will be served any time from 11:30 until 1 p.m.

Visitors are asked not to arrive before 11 a.m.; tours of the house will not begin until after the meal.

Those who are unable to attend one of the luncheons are invited to tour Magnolia Manor during one of the weekends of Holiday House. Holiday House will begin on Nov. 26, the Friday after Thanksgiving, and end on Sunday, Dec. 5. Hours are 1 to 4 p.m. daily.

Proceeds from Holiday House and other fundraisers are used to preserve Magnolia Manor, located at 2700 Washington Ave. in Cairo. The 14-room Victorian mansion was completed in 1872 as the home of Cairo businessman Charles Galigher.

Other events planned this year include:

Oct. 2: Pancakes on the grounds and Bark in the Park

Oct. 5: Luncheon

Oct. 9: Chicken and Dumpling Dinner

Fundraisers for 2011 include:

March 6: Mardi Gras Brunch, including champagne and live entertainment

April 5, May 3 and June 7: Luncheons

July 16: Bridge luncheon