With temperatures forecast for the mid-80s this weekend, organizers for the 36th annual historic Selma Pilgrimage are hoping visitors will come out to enjoy Selma’s “historic places and southern graces.”

This year’s Pilgrimage offers visitors a chance to tour six historical homes, experience a living history interactive cemetery tour through Old Live Oak Cemetery, be intrigued by a paranormal investigation at Kenan’s Mill and an Antique Car show at Heritage Village.

Organizers and homeowners are feverously putting last minute touches together and hope for a great turnout.

Jacque Johnson has been working with the Pilgrimage for seven years, designing ticket and map information and creating brochures.

“I highly recommend people come out this year; I don’t think they will be disappointed,” Johnson said. “The homeowners are putting final touches on their historic homes, polishing and arranging, volunteer guides are learning about the rooms they will host and Janet Gresham and I continue to update the website to let people know about the events.”

Sheryl Smedley, executive director for the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce, has been involved with the Pilgrimage for many years.

“The furnishings and architecture of the homes is what draws me and interests me,” Smedley said. “Anytime we can bring visitors in to town it’s an opportunity for first time visitors to see what we have to offer. The Pilgrimage is good for our community and for realtors.”

When tourists visit the downtown historic homes and restaurants, Smedley said, property and commercial sales increase.

Smedley said many out-of-towners are amazed by what Selma has to offer.

“Selma has a lot of potential,” Smedley said. “People say they want to raise their kids and even purchase a business here. People who have moved away want to come back.”

The cemetery tour is March 18 from 6-9 p.m. and will cost $10. The Paranormal Investigation is March 19 from 7-10 p.m. and will cost $10. The car show will also be held Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and admission is free.

The public can purchase tickets at Vaughan-Smitherman Museum Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Individual event and package tickets are also available.