Take a holiday home tour — and help a cause

Inspirational decorations fill each stop of  El Dorado Hills’ Homes for the Holidays tours. (Photo courtesy Assistance League of Sierra Foothills.)

Rain or shine, these tours spark inspiration

A little (or a lot) of rain can’t dampen this holiday spirit.

Two major holiday home tours will be held this weekend, boosting the greater Sacramento area’s seasonal spirit.

Today patrons were already out walking the streets of Sacramento’s Fabulous Forties during the 46th annual Sacred Heart Holiday Home Tour. One of the largest events of its kind in our area, this tour regularly attracts more than 5,000 people, who stroll through the grand neighborhood to see five homes decked out in holiday splendor.

This isn’t the first time there’s been rain on this neighborhood parade. Preparations include contingencies for rain, umbrellas and wet feet. Refreshments (including some warm beverages) will be offered at the Sacred Heart Parish School, which also will host a huge boutique of locally sourced products and a Champagne Bar. (Admission to the boutique is free.)

The Sacred Heart Tour continues 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Tickets ($30) are available at

www.sacredhearthometour.com

, Sacred Heart School, 856 39th St., and the first home on the tour, 1370 46th St. Proceeds support programs and scholarships to Sacred Heart.

In El Dorado Hills, Homes for the Holidays celebrates its 10th year on Dec. 7 and 8. Hosted by the Assistance League of Sierra Foothills, this popular tour raises funds for disadvantaged and homeless children and families. Spectacular homes are decked out in equally eye-popping style, inspiring many a holiday decorating project. In addition, this tour offers a raffle with outrageous prizes and a boutique of handmade gifts.

Tour hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets ($25 for adults, $10 for children) are available at

www.assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills/

.