It’s officially springtime in Mississippi, which means the birds are singing, the flowers are in full bloom and the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage has begun its annual run. This memorable event is the perfect diversion for anyone with an appreciation for the majesty of antebellum homes and days gone by.

During the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage, 30 incredible antebellum mansions open their doors to the public. Guides include costumed friends and descendants of the homes’ original inhabitants, so you’ll hear true tales and historical narratives.

Homes open to the public during the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage include Auburn, Linden, Routhland, Greenlea, Governor Holmes, Texada, Ellicot’s Hill, Banker’s House, The Burn, Hope Farm, Richmond, Magnolia Hall, Shields Town House, Airlie, Green Leaves, Elms, Elgin, Elms Court, Hawthorne, Landsdowne, Montaigne, Oakland and Selma, among others.

Three house tour tickets can be purchased for $30 for adults and $18 per person (6-18 years) for youth. Morning tours take place from 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., and afternoon tours from 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

After the home tours, the pilgrimage includes a wide schedule of other events where you can enjoy wine, dance, music, art displays and more. The pilgrimage runs through April 14th.

Click here to read more about the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage.