One of the events synonymous with the holiday season in Scioto County is the Portsmouth Business and Professional Women’s 24th annual Candlelight Tour of Churches from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 11.

The tour, which begins at the Scioto County Court House, makes stops at the Evangelical United Church of Christ, Bigelow Church, St. Mary’s Church, All Saints Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church.

“You just come, and there’s refreshments, and entertainment at the beginning at the Court House, and there’s entertainment and refreshments at the end at First Presbyterian Church,” Ginnie Wagner, of BPW, said.

Wagner said those participating in the event will walk from church to church with tours starting every 15 minutes all evening long.

“Each church has their own thing that they do,” Wagner said. “They will tell you about the church. They will give you the history of the church. And at some of the churches they have the choir singing. It’s very interesting and very entertaining. Every year you go on a tour you learn something new.”

Refreshments and entertainment will also be available throughout the time for those who can’t make the walking tour.

“We have entertainment until 8 (p.m.) o’clock, maybe even later,” Ellen Horsley, of BPW, said. “It features local talent, so even if you don’t want to go on the tour, you can go to the Court House and just enjoy Christmas music. A lot of people do that. There’s refreshments — we have cookies and coffee and hot chocolate.”

Again, as in years past, Norna Prior will be in charge of the entertainment.

“This year, I’m bringing the Hill View Chorus down this year year to sing, but we have had the Cornerstone Bell Choir there, and sometimes I have the schools bring their show choirs,” Prior said. “We will have good entertainment with the music starting at 6 (p.m.) o’clock.”

Wagner said this year the BPW asked the churches to help with the tour, and the churches have responded positively to the invitation.

Frank Lewis may be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 232.