The Midtown Holiday Home Tour is November 8-9, 2014, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. that features four residences in the Meridian-Kessler and Butler-Tarkington neighborhoods. Also included is a Tarkington Towers penthouse at 4000 N. Meridian Street.

"I serve on the committee that plans the home tour and help volunteer on the day of. The Home Tour is a great experience for people who are looking to explore some of the historic homes in Midtown. It also gives people the opportunity to get some new ideas for entertaining and decorating before the big holidays in fall and winter arrive! Since it's the first week of November, it's usually the first holiday-related event people attend and has sort of become a tradition for some families. Taking a volunteer shift at the Home Tour is fantastic because you'll get to see all the homes for free after your shift is over. It's fun to volunteer with a few friends and then make a day of it after everyone is done with their shift!" explained Laura Granieri.

Volunteers are a vital part of ensuring the Home Tour runs smoothly. Those who are interested can learn more at: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4eaaad2aa1fe3-midtown2.

Architectural designs seen on this year's tour include a Tudor Revival, a classic Tudor and a Georgian revival home.

A special event precedes this year's home tour. The inaugural Midtown Holiday Soiree is Friday, November 7, 2014, from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Ivy Tech Culinary Institute's student-run restaurant, Courses. It is located on the top floor of their Culinary Center. Beverages and appetizers were created especially for this event. There will be live music and dancing to the band Greta Speaks. A ticket entitles guests to an evening of holiday appetizers, signature cocktails and a silent auction. Guests have an option to obtain two Holiday Home Tour tickets included with their Soiree ticket, which can save them up to $15.

Home Tour tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door of residences on the day of the event. They can also be purchased online at www.midtownindy.org. Guests may begin at any house and if purchased ahead of time, should bring printed tickets with them to their first home.

Tour sponsors include Butler University, National Bank of Indianapolis, State Farm and Simply Amish.

The Midtown Holiday Home Tour offers a rare look inside vintage homes in some of Indianapolis' historic neighborhoods.