Holiday Porch Stroll
Holiday Porch Stroll
Sunday, Dec. 7 | 4-7 p.m.
Walk through history this holiday season with a self-guided tour of one of Bryan’s oldest neighborhoods.
Start at Heritage Park to pick up a free guide and map, then explore the charm of the East Side Historic District and view historic home exteriors beautifully decorated for the season.
Homeowner Sign-Up
Home registration is voluntary and free. Help showcase the beauty and history of your neighborhood this holiday season by participating in this memorable and festive community event.
Homeowners are encouraged to decorate their front porches and/or yards with seasonal and holiday-themed decorations that can be enjoyed from the sidewalk and front porch. Visitors will not be inside your home, and you are allowed to choose which outdoor areas, if any, you wish to make accessible during the event. While the official event time is 4-7 p.m., visitors may stroll the district earlier or later at their own pace, but your level of involvement is entirely up to you. We appreciate the inclusion of historical photos or information about your property during registration, if willing to share, to be featured in the printed guide.
To register your home for inclusion on the event map and materials, please complete the online registration form or contact Benjamin T. Johnson by email (bjohnson@bryantx.gov) or by phone (979-209-5030).
The deadline to register is Oct. 5, 2025.
Homeowner Frequently Asked Questions
Will people be coming inside of our house?
No. Visitors may only view the porch and yard areas that the homeowner chooses to make accessible.
Who can participate and what is expected of them?
All homeowners in the East Side Historic District may sign up their house be part of this tour. The expectation is to decorate the house with holiday decorations prior to the event date. Homeowners are also asked (while not required) to help make this tour happen by providing city staff with any pictures, documents, or any information that is available on the history of the home.
Are there guidelines or limitations to the decorations we can use?
We encourage decorations that are family-friendly and safe for both visitors and neighbors. Please make sure your decorations don’t block sidewalks or walkways, and please avoid very loud or disruptive elements. While any winter or holiday theme is welcome, we suggest decor that complements the historic character of the neighborhood. Lights, garlands, wreaths, candles, and seasonal displays are all great ideas!
Does it cost to participate?
No, this event is absolutely free for homeowners in the district to participate.
Do I have to stay home during the event if I participate?
No. Homeowners of participating homes are invited to enjoy the tour of the historic district with the rest of the public. You are more than welcome to stay at your home and talk to visitors and answer questions, but it is not required.
Do I need to provide anything in order to participate?
You will need to register with the city using the online form, or by signing up directly with city staff. Any pictures or information that are provided for the tour packet are appreciated but not required.
Is this a contest?
No, this is not a contest and there are no prizes. This event is purely for fun and educational purposes only.
Is there anything that we cannot do?
Please do not invite visitors inside your home, charge admission, or block public sidewalks. Excessively loud noise, commercial advertising, or anything that violates local ordinances are not allowed.
For additional questions, concerns or feedback, contact staff planner Benjamin T. Johnson by email (bjohnson@bryantx.gov) or by phone (979-209-5030).
