Two Hamptons Villages Taking Tourgoers On A Journey To East End Gems

Normally December in the Hamptons means frigid temperatures and at least a few sprinkles of snow. While the chilly weather may not have arrived yet (and after last year’s snowfall, we’re very grateful for that), a feeling of seasonal excitement can still be felt throughout the East End. As Christmas approaches, two Hamptons Villages are preparing for the holidays by presenting an end of year tradition that will leave attendees feeling jolly.

On Saturday, December 12th, the East Hampton Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 25th Annual Holiday Tour of Inns, B & Bs, and Special Places. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees can explore several Hamptons treasures (which will be revealed upon registration) during the self-guided tour. The yearly happening will begin at The Huntting Inn (94 Main Street, East Hampton), where guests will register and enjoy pre-tour sweets, coffee, and tea.

“Guests can walk to the Inns in the Village, as well as Guild Hall,” shared Marina Van, Executive Director of the East Hampton Chamber of Commerce. “But a car is needed for a beautiful B & B in Amagansett, a beautiful Inn in Sag Harbor and, of course, the Pollock Krasner House in Springs.” The event always brings out a few familiar faces. “Although many new guests join the tour, we often see repeats,” said Van. “The check-in at The Huntting Inn is very cozy and people love gathering there.” Each property will greet guests with refreshments, and for the first time ever, The East Hampton Farm Museum (North Main Street at Cedar Street, East Hampton) will open solely for attendees. Another tour highlight is the visit to the Pollock Krasner House and Study Center. The former home of Jackson Pollock and his wife Lee Krasner will open exclusively for tourgoers, just for the day. Admission is $25 and free for children 12-years-old and under. For more information, visit easthamptonchamber.com.

The Quogue Historical Society Holiday House Tour will also take place on Saturday, December 12th. From 12 to 6 p.m., attendees can journey throughout Quogue to admire five festively festooned homes. “Tourgoers will love the variety of the houses, all decorated for the holidays, which have their own unique characters,” shared Melissa Cook, who is co-chairing the event with Maureen Leness. “They include a stunning converted barn, a contemporary house designed by the homeowner, who says it will be ‘all about the lights’ on Saturday, a home dedicated to music with a room for a 102 year old Steinway grand piano, a midcentury masterpiece on the beach with a striking ‘diamond’ facade, and a Tudor home restored to its 1920s elegance.”

A Cocktail Party, hosted at one of the featured homes, will follow from 6 to 8 p.m. All proceeds from the tour will benefit the Society’s Education, Collections Care, and Historic Preservation Programs. Tickets are $50 for the House Tour, $40 for the Cocktail Party, $85 for both events, and $125 for a Patron ticket to both events. Tickets will be sold at the Society’s Pond House (114 Jessup Avenue) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and at the Quogue Library (90 Quogue Street) from 1 to 4 p.m., on the day of the event. For more information, visit quoguehistory.org.