As a way to celebrate the start of the Christmas season, staff at the Andrew Johnson Homestead invite the public to attend an open house and candlelight tours at the Homestead.

The open house will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, at the Homestead, on South Main Street.

The open house at the Homestead is the same evening as the lighting of the Greeneville Community Christmas tree, allowing visitors to attend both events.

"This event at the Homestead is one of our favorite gifts to the community at this special time of year," said Lizze Watts, superintendent of the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site. "We look forward to extending a warm welcome to all visitors as we begin the 2012 holiday season."

Tours of the Homestead are free.

The Community Children's Chorus and Youth Ensemble, under the direction of Angee Woody, will provide musical entertainment.

A 30-minute concert, beginning at 7 p.m., will take place on the Homestead veranda. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and folding chairs to the concert.

The Homestead will re-open after the concert for final candlelight tours.

Members of the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, as well as President Andrew Johnson and daughter Mary Johnson Stover, will be on hand for the tours. The Homestead will be decorated in Victorian fashion.