CLEVELAND — After going up for sale nearly one year ago, a deal has been reached for new ownership of the iconic Cleveland house used in 1983's A Christmas Story — but it’s going to take some time before we learn who purchased the legendary movie property.
Although details are slim, the deal was confirmed Tuesday by the current property owner with the following message on Facebook:
"A Christmas Story House & Museum is pleased to announce that we have reached a deal for a change of ownership. We expect to have the agreement finalized by the end of November, at which time we will introduce the new owner.
"Operations will continue as usual during and after the transition."
The home, which is located at 3159 West 11th Street in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood, was officially placed on the market last year on Nov. 14, 2022. 3News broke the story about the house going up for sale exclusively on GO! as the owner Brian Jones put the “for sale” sign in front of the property.
The asking price, however, was never publicly announced.
"Looking for the right buyer," Jones told 3News last year. "It's an interesting property to not only own, but you also have to take care of as a piece of Americana. It's going to be an interesting journey."
Neighboring properties associated with the house were also included in the sale.
“When we say all this can be yours, we’re serious,” according to the initial listing. “The entire campus is for sale, which spans a total of 1.3 acres including five buildings on seven parcels. Additionally, there are two public and one private parking lots, and two empty lots, which create room for further expansion."
MOVIE MAGIC IN CLEVELAND
The house, which has become a bucket list tourist destination for film fans around the world, has been ranked by TripAdvisor as one of the top things to do in Cleveland. Overnight stays at the main house and neighboring Bumpus house are also available.
While Ralphie’s house is the most-celebrated location used in the film, it’s not the only Cleveland spot seen in the movie.
The scene where Ralphie first lays eyes on the Red Ryder BB gun was filmed at the former Higbee building windows in Public Square. Remember the Santa slide scene? That was filmed inside the Higbee building, which is now home to the JACK Cleveland Casino. The Christmas parade featured in the film was also recorded in downtown Cleveland's Public Square.
Although the movie wasn’t a big box office success upon its initial release, A Christmas Story has become one of the most beloved holiday films of all time. It tells the heartwarming tale of 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his desire to have Santa Claus bring him a Red Ryder BB gun. His Christmas wish takes plenty of twists and turns as the Parker family embarks on a hilarious holiday journey filled with countless lines fans frequently quote, while making leg lamps a must-have item in many households.
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS SINCE THE MOVIE'S RELEASE
As the movie marks 40 years since its initial release, the cast is returning to Cleveland to celebrate with fans.
The event -- known as "Behind the Camera: Ralphie Comes Home" -- will be held Nov. 10-12 with the following schedule...
Friday, Nov. 10:
- Cast Expo: 1:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. in Public Auditorium
- Behind the Camera Panel: 7 p.m. in the Music Hall
Saturday, Nov. 11:
- Cast Expo: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 12:
- Cast Expo: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Here are highlights as outlined by event organizers...
- Special Guest Appearances: Principle cast members including Peter Billingsley from A Christmas Story will appear at the Cast Expo, sharing their personal stories and memories from the production of this holiday classic, taking photos, and signing autographs with fans.
- Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Fans will have the opportunity to attend an exclusive moderated panel event with the cast and gain insights into the making of the film, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and memorable moments from the set, giving attendees a unique glimpse into the filmmaking process.
- Exclusive Merchandise: Commemorate the event with limited-edition merchandise available for purchase.
- Additional Experiences: Cast Expo attendees can take advantage of a special Cleveland Film Location tour, courtesy of the Cleveland Funny Bus Comedy City Tour, find and recreate scenes from A Christmas Story locations using the free SetJetters app, and more.
Our friend Al Roker of the TODAY show will also be coming to Cleveland for the event as a moderator.
Tickets are up for sale HERE.