The Parade of Homes is set to celebrate over seven decades of home tours this fall.

In 1948 the Minneapolis Builders Association came together with a vision to showcase the best of new construction to potential homebuyers. Originally named the “Trend Home,” six builders collaborated to set the stage for what would later be known as the Parade of Homes. Its inception was met with resounding success and an overwhelming turnout from eager homebuyers.

By the 1950s, both the Minneapolis Builders Association and St. Paul Area Builders Associations had introduced their respective Parade of Homes events, marking a turning point in home promotions.

Fast forward to today, the Parade of Homes is on the cusp of its 75th anniversary, continuing its mission to assist Minnesotans in finding their ideal homes and design inspirations. Each year, over 200,000 people participate in the Parade of Homes, making it one of the most attended events in the Twin Cities.

Inspired by its triumph, many other organizations across the country have since replicated the Parade of Homes model.

“The success of the Parade of Homes has helped shape the very cities we call home,” said James Vagle, CEO of Housing First Minnesota. “For 75 years the tour has invited families and friends to be inspired by homes of all sizes and prices and showcased the benefits of homeownership in our community. Organizations across the United States look to our Parade of Homes as the premier home tour event in the country.”

This fall’s tour will run from Sept. 9-Oct. 1 with homes open Thursdays-Sundays from 12-6 p.m. Several community events throughout the Twin Cities metro are being planned for before and during the tour to celebrate the milestone anniversary.