Driving through neighborhoods lit by Christmas lights is a time-honored tradition but in historic Clifton, residents take it a bit further. Each year as part of a candlelight homes tour, the public can enter five preserved and restored homes and two churches, done up for the holidays.

Each year the homes lineup changes slightly, but all the buildings date back to the late 19th century. This year, the stops include:

*12704 Chapel Road, “Detwiler House,” built circa 1905, Jennifer and Mike Heilmann residence and Hydrangea Home & Gift Boutique.

*12641 Chapel Road, The Art Guild of Clifton.

*12748 Richardson Lane, Clifton Presbyterian Church founded in 1870, with music every 30 minutes, performed by The Osborne Park Madrigal and Cantus Singers.

*7151 Main Street, “Payne House,” built in 1884, Pete and Mary Mills residence.

*7152 Main Street, Clifton Baptist Church, built in 1877, with music every 30 minutes, performed by the Patriot High School Women’s Choir.

*7153 Main Street, built in 1884, Sal and Gina Speziale residence.

*12653 School Street, “Edgewood,” built in 1908, Regan and Laura MacDonald residence.

*12641 School Street, “Spring Cottage,” built in 1901, Karen and Mac Arnold residence.

The tradition goes back decades and has added a number of auxiliary events over the years. Prior to the start of the homes tour at 4 p.m., the Clifton Horse Society will parade a number of costumed, caroling riders through town on similarly costumed chargers, starting at 2 p.m. “It’s a little quirky,” said organizer and Clifton Main Street Pub owner Tom McNamara. “But it’s really cool and it’s a big thrill for the kids.”

Also starting at two is the Art Guild of Clifton Show at the Community Hall, with artists showcasing and selling paintings, sculpture, jewelry and textile art. The exhibition will include contest-winning work from students at Clifton’s Union Mill Elementary School.

At 5 p.m., McNamara said a child chosen from the crowd wil