DeKALB — The recurring Pumpkin Fest tradition of the Historic Tour of Homes fundraiser by the DeKalb County Center will be held virtually this year from Saturday to Jan. 10 to learn and enjoy local history and architecture. 

Tickets to the virtual house tour will come with a magazine-style brochure for $20 that highlights 15 homes along Somonauk Street to showcase both internal and external architecture, according to a Oct. 9 DeKalb County History Center news release. The package will be available in a digital format with the option to print out the materials as well. The brochure also comes with video interviews from homeowners, mobile access and never before seen tours of DeKalb County’s historical homes. 

It will be available to purchase on Saturday.

DeKalb County is filled with rich history people don’t always know about and take the time to appreciate it, executive director Michelle Donahoe said. This virtual house tour is an excellent way to build a stronger connection with the community and the county’s past. 

“Even if you’re a student at NIU, you’re a part of this DeKalb and Sycamore community and to check out these historical stories makes you more connected to where you live,” Donahoe said. 

Those interested can purchase tickets on the DeKalb County History Center website, according to the news release. 

“People will be really impressed by what we’ve been able to do in such a combination of local history, national history, as well as some really great stories,” Donahoe said. “These stories are right here in the backyard for most people, so it’s a great way to learn about where you live and support a non-profit.”