Lakewood Home tour FAQ

Below are some commonly asked questions:

  • How do I purchase tickets?
    • You may purchase advance tickets online at our HOME FESTIVAL page, at The T Shop and Comerica Bank, or at any home during the event.

  • I bought tickets online, but I cannot find my receipt. What should I do?
    • You do not need a receipt.  The volunteers at each home and the Friday night Auction Party have a printed list of every ticket holder who purchased their tickets online. Wherever you choose to start your festival weekend, give us your name and we will get you checked in!

  • Do I have to have a special ticket for the Candlelight Tour?
    • Yes.  You may buy a ticket in advance on our website for this special Saturday evening event.  You may also buy a Candlelight Tour ticket or upgrade your regular tour ticket to Candlelight at any of the homes on Saturday evening.

  • Will I be allowed to wear shoes inside the houses?
    • We ask that you follow the rules at each home. At most homes we ask that you keep your shoes on but put shoe covers over them (shoe covers are provided at the entry of each home).  Wearing shoe covers helps keep dirt and debris to a minimum inside the homes.  We typically do not allow shoe covers to go over bare feet or sock feet because experience has shown that shoe covers over shoes provides the best traction on smooth floors. We recommend you wear shoes with flat soles or very low heels so that they will fit more easily inside the shoe covers.  Flip-flops are discouraged.

  • Is photography allowed on the Tour?
    • Typically it is not, but this is up to the homeowner. You may ask the volunteer docents when you enter a home if photos are allowed. If in doubt, please refrain, and please be respectful of homeowner wishes.

  • If I get tired, can I sit on furniture in the houses?
    • Please don’t. Respect that each home is the pride and joy of the homeowner. They are opening their doors for all of us to take a peek inside.  We also ask that you please refrain from touching furniture, walls, art or any other objects inside the homes.  Tour them as you would a museum.

  • Will bathrooms be available at the homes?
    • Sorry, but no. The bathrooms in most of the tour properties are showpieces. They are meant to be viewed and not used. If you need to use a facility, please do it between stops on the tour. We have public restrooms available at the Market and Café at Lakewood Elementary.

  • Are children allowed on the Tour?
    • Certainly, and children 12 and under can attend for free. We want to introduce outstanding architecture and design to everyone. However, parents must remain aware of where their children are at all times. Also, babies in strollers can be tough — most properties have stairs and most will be somewhat crowded — getting strollers through could be challenging. We recommend a carrier or sling instead of a stroller for the really little ones.

  • Are pets allowed on the Tour?
    • We love pets as much as anyone, but please leave them at home for the Tour.

  • Are food and drink allowed on the Tour?
    • Please leave any food and beverages in your car.

  • How can I get my home on the Tour?
    • We are always in search of great homes for the tour! Please email our team at [email protected] if you have a home suggestion for future festivals.