MONTGOMERY (AP) — The Governor’s Mansion in Montgomery is getting ready for the first of three evenings of public tours during the Christmas season.

First lady Dianne Bentley said the mansion opened from 5-7 p.m. Monday and will be open during the same hours Dec. 10 and 17.

Decorators from across the state volunteered to decorate the mansion and the neighboring Hill House for the holidays. The first lady said she wants to share that with the public.

Free tickets for the tours are available at the Governor’s Mansion gift shop across the street from the side entrance of the mansion at 30 Finley Ave.

The Governor’s Mansion has served as the official residence for Alabama governors since 1951. The Hill House joined the mansion complex in 2003 and also is open for tours.

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