Waxahachie – Celebrate the legacy, charm, and historic beauty of Waxahachie during the 55th Annual Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes, returning in 2025. Hosted by the Ellis County Museum, this beloved summer tradition invites guests to explore stunning private residences, historic landmarks, and exciting new experiences – all while supporting local preservation efforts. The event takes place June 7-8. Purchase tickets at www.gingerbreadtrail.org.
STEP INSIDE WAXAHACHIE’S ARCHITECTURAL GEMS
Known as the “Gingerbread City” for its ornate Victorian architecture, Waxahachie offers a warm welcome as it opens the doors to its past.
Take a rare peek inside some of the city’s most breathtaking homes, each lovingly preserved or restored to reflect its unique era:
900 Bryson St. – A Victorian-style residence with intricate gingerbread trim and period stained-glass windows.
502 W Marvin Ave. – Boasting wraparound porches and a rich history, this home showcases timeless Southern elegance.
512 N College St. – Lush gardens and interior woodwork transport visitors back to Waxahachie’s golden age.
515 N College St. – This charming residence features authentic turn-of-the-century detailing and a storied past.
911 E Marvin Ave. – An architectural treasure filled with historical character and preserved craftsmanship.
EVENT PERKS
General admission includes access to all of the above homes, plus the Ellis County Museum. Established in 1889, it serves as a historical treasure trove, preserving and sharing the rich heritage and stories of Waxahachie and Ellis County.
VIP Mimosa Party – Start your day in style with exclusive early entry, mimosas, and line-skipping privileges (VIP ticket required).
BONUS TOURS OF LOCAL LANDMARKS
The Texas Theater, 10 W Main St. – Explore the 1920s-era movie palace where entertainment history was made.
Meat Church BBQ, 106 W Main St. – Step inside the world-renowned BBQ brand’s rustic and historic headquarters.
First United Methodist Church, 505 W. Marvin Ave. – One of Waxahachie’s oldest congregations, with a building highlighted by a beautiful central entrance tower and 1950’s Gothic Revival style architecture.
Nicholas P. Sims Library, 515 W Main St. – A Beaux-Arts Classical building, similar to Dallas’s Carnegie library, established in 1905, still serving the community today.
Historic Ellis County Courthouse, 101 W Main St. – A Romanesque Revival masterpiece and crown jewel of the downtown square.
Chautauqua Auditorium, 400 S Grand Ave. – Built in 1902, this rare octagonal wooden auditorium once hosted the likes of Booker T. Washington and William Jennings Bryan.
Ellis County Master Gardeners Garden Tours – Delight in local garden artistry and eco-conscious landscaping across multiple properties.
NEW FOR 2025: ECHOES OF THE PAST PARANORMAL TOUR
Step into the shadows for an unforgettable evening walking tour exploring Waxahachie’s haunted history. This immersive paranormal experience features chilling stops at:
Chautauqua Auditorium – Where whispers of old performances still seem to echo.
Waxahachie City Cemetery – Final resting place of early settlers and Civil War veterans – some of whom are rumored to still roam.
Led by experienced paranormal investigators and local historians, the tour includes ghost stories, historical context, and real-time demonstrations with paranormal equipment. A perfect mix of eerie and educational (Add-on experience – additional ticket required)
WIN A PIECE OF HISTORY: THE HERITAGE QUILT RAFFLE
Support the Ellis County Museum by entering to win a handcrafted quilt, lovingly donated by a local artisan. All raffle proceeds go directly toward museum preservation efforts.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply searching for a beautiful weekend experience, the Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes has something for everyone.
Tickets available at www.gingerbreadtrail.org
For press inquiries, media kits, or group bookings, contact Sandy Emmons
Email: admin@elliscountymuseum.org
Phone: (972) 937-0681
No refunds available. Proceeds benefit the Ellis County Museum.
- Log in or Subscribe to post comments.