The Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association will kick off its 26th annual Parade of Homes event this week.

The parade, which showcases the craftsmanship, diversity and quality of 50 of the region’s premier residences, is a two-weekend event scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday through Sunday, May 6, according to a news release.

Participants of the parade will first need to download the association’s 2012 Plan Book Magazine — which features renderings and floor plans for each entry, along with detailed maps of the entire Parade coverage area — at www.wilmingtonparadeofhomes.com.

The magazine is also available at the home builder association’s headquarters, located at 3801-5 Wrightsville Avenue. 

New to the tour this year is the Parade of Home’s inaugural Association House. 

The house — built by Association House Diamond Sponsor Stevens Fine Homes — is located in South Brook at Mallory Creek Plantation, and serves as a fundraising project for the group’s members. 

The home was staged by Just Perfect Home Staging & More, as well as the products and upgrades completed by Huber, Advantech, Masonite, Simpson Strong-Tie and Silver Line. 

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage will donate brokerage fees from the sale of this house the builder’s association, the news release said. 

The 3,200 square foot home is designed to reflect European architecture, while highlighting energy efficient features. It also boasts large living spaces, a two-story open foyer, versatile loft area, a finished room over the two-car garage and a media room.