MARION — Any visitor of the Tri-Town driving through Marion Village on Saturday, Dec. 7 might have been confused by the hundreds of people walking the streets, most with maps and hot coffees in hand.

In what may have looked like an adult-version of a scavenger hunt, an estimated 500 people bounced around between five Marion homes as part of the Sippican Woman’s Club’s 34th annual Holiday House Tour.

The five homes that made up the tour remained a secret to the public until the day of the event, but even left a strong impression on one of the few people who had already seen them.

“When I went in to see them today finished and fully decorated, I was just in awe,” said Sippican Woman’s Club member and planner of the event Tara Calabrese of the five homes.

Calabrese said the gasping and excitement she heard from attendees was a pleasant sign.

“I don’t know exactly what the counts are but I think it’s probably one of our stronger years,” said Calabrese, who described the turnout as “phenomenal.” She added that the club even ran out of the shoe-covers that guests are required to wear when entering a home on the tour.

Each of the five homes were decorated with floral arrangements from local businesses. Additional trees, wreathes, candles and more made it feel like the holidays in every home.

Calabrese said that although planning the event was a lot of work logistically, most homeowners that she approached said ‘yes’ right away and were excited about opening their doors to the community.

Sippican Woman’s Club members and volunteers from local high schools were stationed throughout each house, directing guests and answering questions.

One member, Jean Linzee, said while helping out guests she couldn’t help but admire the art and decorations that covered the walls of the homes.

Money raised through ticket sales will be used to fund Sippican Woman’s Club scholarships for students or donated to various charities.

“This is a very festive opportunity to enjoy our community together,” said Calabrese.

After guests were spread out amongst the five houses, they came together for a “Sugarplum Tea” and assorted bites and beverages at Tabor Academy’s Great Room.

“This was magnificent,” said attendee Ellen Patricia Flynn. “For the small price charged it was just divine, especially ending with the tea.”

Another attendee, Mattapoisett resident Marcia Waldron, said she remembers walking through the houses on the tour as a child.

“It’s only in towns like this where these events happen because people care enough to put them on,” said Waldron, who said the experience was “delightful.”