NATCHEZ — Today is the beginning of Fall Pilgrimage in Natchez, a season of exclusive tours and events that will last through Oct. 14.

Pilgrimage Garden Club president, Eugenie Cates said if locals driving around town find people speaking German or Swedish or toting a camera, it might be because upwards of 500 tickets were pre-sold to guests from all over the world.

“We are just thrilled that we have so many international visitors. Sometimes it feels like the people of the world know Natchez better than we know ourselves,” Cates said, adding she had seen hundreds of visitors from all over the world walking the halls of historic homes Thursday while American Queen and American Duchess cruises docked in Natchez.

Cates said 17 private homes — which are usually not open to the public except this time of year — will be open for tours for $20 each or $45 for three houses.

Museum tours at Stanton Hall, Longwood and Rosalie are also available for $25 each or $60 for all three.

In the true spirit of fall, three paranormal tours at Longwood, The Towers and The Burn would be added to a list of new events this year, Cates said.

Some returning favorites include an 1800s dining experience in Choctaw Hall and Sweet Treats at Sunnyside — where guests get to experience a reenactment of Victorian-style funeral, a self-guided tour of Sunnyside along with sweet treats in the library, Cates said.

“Natchez is already a popular stop on the Blues Highway,” she said. “People love to stop here and stay a night or two but we love to let them stay a little longer. There is so much to see and do here. The ones that do stay are loving it and say they want to come back again. We want everyone in the world to know about Natchez.”

For more information about Natchez Pilgrimage Tours, call 601-334-7084 or visit www.natchezpilgrimage.com. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Natchez Visitor and Reception Center.