One of the area's best early spring traditions is the Annual Valentine Tour of Homes, presented by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. This year, six luxurious and diverse homes will be available for touring on Saturday and Sunday, February 15th and 16th. This annual event gives visitors and residents an opportunity to explore the architecture and style of some of the area's most interesting and innovative homes. This year, the homes on tour include:
-Washaway, 10 Hoytz Street, Grayton Beach -The Taylor Home, 184 Barnhill Street Grayton Beach
-The Brooks Home, (which was featured on HGTV), on JD Miller Road, Santa Rosa Beach
-The Puckett Home, 23 Western Lake Drive, Water Color
-Thyme Street home in Seagrove
-38 Whitby Court in Alys Beach The annual Tour of Homes aims to illustrate the diverse styles and architecture found throughout South Walton County. This year, the event also offers an opportunity for participants to visit with CAA Artist of the Year Mary Hong and try out one of her glass workshops. Mary's studio is located in Grayton Beach. The Cultural Arts Alliance is the officially designated Local Arts Agency for the county and it serves as an umbrella organization supporting the arts through leadership, advocacy,funding, programs and education. The funds raised through the tour of homes benefit the CAA's Educational Giving Program, which provides grants and funding to Walton County teachers and students. Tickets are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 on site.