The Dexter Area Historical Society is ringing in the holidays Victorian style on Dec. 1 and 2 for its second annual "Christmas at the Mansion" fundraiser.

Local businesses have decked out six rooms in festive decor at Gordon Hall, the home of village founder Judge Samuel Dexter, and will treat visitors to tours of the mansion from noon to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

"The mansion is such a beautiful piece of architecture and an elegant piece of Dexter's history," event chairwoman Julie Knight said.

Residents can take a self-guided tour of the mansion and enjoy homemade cookies and hot chocolate, carolers on the porch, and photos with Santa in an antique sleigh. Museum staff will be on hand to answer any questions visitors may have.

In addition, members of the Dexter Heritage Guild will be selling handmade crafts in the milk house on the Gordon Hall property. A drawing for a old world St. Nick statue designed by Jan Lyons will also take place. Tickets are $5.

The tours are free but there is a suggested donation of $5 per adult and $1 per child ages 5-12.

In addition to the tour, tickets are now available for the historical society's Christmas Tea to benefit Gordon Hall on Dec. 8. Tickets are $20 per adult and $5 per child (ages 4-14). The event takes place at 1 p.m. and again at 4 p.m. For tickets call 734-424-0369.

Proceeds from the events will be used to pay down the mortgage on Gordon Hall.

For more information, visit the Dexter Area Historical Society's website, www.dextermuseum.org.