Welcome to the 2026 SOTA Show House Featuring the John B. Shimer House in Emmaus, PA

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Celebrate Heritage, Creativity & Community

Step into history and witness a transformation unlike any before. In 2026, the SOTA Show House will be hosted in the historic John B. Shimer House — a landmark Greek Revival Farm House in Emmaus (Shimerville) built in 1855, once owned by the influential local figure John Shimer.  This event isn’t just a tour — it’s an immersive experience blending the timeless charm of 19th-century architecture with the creative vision of contemporary designers, landscapers, and artists from across the Lehigh Valley.

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What to Expect

• Historic Architecture Reimagined — Original period details of the Shimer House, such as its historic windows, classic fireplaces, and stately proportions, will be honored and enhanced with carefully curated interior design. 

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• Design & Landscape Showcase — Local interior designers and landscape artists will re-envision each room and the surrounding grounds, offering inspiration for how heritage homes can shine with modern creativity.

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• Community & Culture at the Heart — In the tradition of SOTA’s mission to support the arts and heritage of our region, proceeds benefit the Allentown Art Museum and help fund its educational and cultural outreach.

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• Events & Social Gatherings — Visitors can look forward to a preview reception, guided tours, opportunities to meet the designers, and special community events — all within the walls of the Shimer House.H

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​Save the Date — And Stay Tuned!

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While final  details are still being finalized, we invite you to stay tuned for updates. When they’re ready, we’ll share:

• Information on our exclusive ticketed Preview-party 

• Ticket pricing and how to purchase

• A full lineup of participating designers, landscapers, and artists

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We can’t wait to open the doors of the John B. Shimer House — where history and creativity meet.

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About Society of the Arts

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Society of the Arts (SOTA) is a nonprofit cultural organization founded in 1964 with a mission to support the Allentown Art Museum's presentation of outstanding artistic programs. Throughout the year, the SOTA offers a number of public events, including docent tours, art activities for children and families, Luncheon with the Authors, the SOTA Show House, and more. Throughout our fifty-year history, SOTA has contributed generously to the Allentown Art Museum. Our gifts have included funds for the purchase of more than 350 prints for the Museum’s collections through the SOTA Print Fund, the creation of the SOTA Education Endowment, and financial support for “Free Sundays,” “Art Ways” and other Museum educational needs. Society of the Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

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SOTA is dedicated to advancing and promoting the mission of the Allentown Art Museum, in our community and beyond.