Patrons of the Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens, conducted by the Historic Beaufort Foundation, can enjoy an added attraction this year: They will also have the chance to visit the Beaufort History Museum and learn about the deep, rich history of the area.

“It is all possible because the Beaufort History Museum has moved back to the Arsenal,” said museum board president Anna Schaffer.  “People attending the festival will be picking up their tickets in The Arsenal courtyard.  The museum is located just upstairs.  It’s a perfect fit and we are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity.”

Isabella Reeves, the festival’s special-events coordinator, said that the Historic Beaufort Foundation has been hosting the popular house and garden tours for more than 40 years “Understanding the incredibly interesting history of this area and the background of the historic district can add to the experience, ” she said.

The Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens is scheduled for October 24-26.  Featured are tours of more than a dozen historic homes and properties, including the newly refurbished Lemon Island Marina, now the home of the Port Royal Foundation Maritime Center.   There is also a Kitchens & Cuisine tour on Sunday, with local chefs creating their specialties in houses downtown and on Lady’s Island.

For more information on the Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens and to purchase tickets for the tour email events@historicbeaufort.org, call843-379-3331 or visit www.historicbeaufort.org.   Tickets to the Beaufort History Museum may be purchased in the visitor center at the reception desk on the first floor of The Arsenal.