Light of the World
- YOUR Williamson
- Dec 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 3
The Governor's Mansion
The Governor’s Mansion is never more beautiful or inviting than during the Christmas season and, this year, that rings especially true. Governor Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee have once again put their best foot forward and are inviting you to join them in celebrating the season as they generously open the Mansion to the public.
For the past six years, the decorations have been centered around a festive theme, bringing cohesiveness and class that is hard to find anywhere else. This year’s theme, “Light of the World,” is impactful for many, bringing the true spirit of the season to the forefront of our minds and reminding us of the one true light even as we are captivated by the sparkling beauty of the Mansion. The meaning and heart behind the decorations are an important part of what makes this place so special, turning the already gorgeous building into a must-see destination.
Maria, along with a team of professional designers, poured time and creativity into each and every room, and the result of these efforts is pure magic. Stunning scenes that will ignite Christmas joy in even the biggest of Scrooges.
“Bill and I are excited to once again welcome Tennesseans into the Tennessee Residence this Christmas season,” says Maria. “It is our hope that the Christmas tours would provide a tangible picture of the glory, grace, and light that Christ brought to earth from that very first Christmas and still today.”
You will, of course, see many beautifully decorated trees at the Governor’s Mansion, but more than that, you will find trees with a meaningful purpose behind them. First Lady Lee’s Nonprofit Trees, will be on display in Conservation Hall, and guests will have the opportunity to donate requested items to local Tennessee nonprofits. Represented this year are Memphis Child Advocacy Center, Reelfoot Rural Ministries, Graceworks Ministries, Helping Mamas Knoxville, and Cumberland Children’s Center House of Hope. Each of these organizations was intentionally picked, and we hope you will take part in what they are doing for our community!
The Tennessee Residence will be open for public tours December 5th – 7th and December 12th – 14th. All tours are self-guided, free to the public, and require a reservation.
For more information and to make your tour reservation, please visit tn.gov/residence.