Prepare to step into a cherished Fort Worth tradition as the historic Ryan Place neighborhood proudly presents its 35th Anniversary Candlelight Christmas Home Tour. This highly anticipated annual event invites you to immerse yourself in the festive spirit, explore breathtaking architecture, and delve into the captivating stories behind some of Fort Worth’s most iconic residences. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7th, from noon to 9 p.m., and Sunday, December 8th, from noon to 5 p.m., for an unforgettable journey through time and holiday splendor.
This year’s self-paced walking tour showcases five magnificent homes, each meticulously preserved and beautifully decorated for the season. Dating back as far as 1915, these residences offer a unique glimpse into the architectural grandeur and evolving lifestyles of a bygone era. As you wander through this picturesque historic district, expert docents will greet you at each home, ready to highlight unique features, share fascinating tales of past owners, and provide insights into the rich history embedded within these walls. Beyond the stunning décor and intricate architectural designs, the Candlelight Christmas Tour offers a profound appreciation for one of Fort Worth’s finest and most enduring neighborhoods, transformed into a magical wonderland for the holidays.
The Ryan Place neighborhood, renowned for its tree-lined streets and stately homes, truly comes alive during this special weekend. From classical revival styles to artfully modernized interiors, the diverse selection of homes ensures there’s something to captivate every visitor’s taste and imagination. Each residence tells its own story, meticulously curated to reflect both its historical integrity and the personal touch of its current inhabitants. This annual tour is not merely about observing beautiful houses; it’s about experiencing the vibrant community spirit, celebrating architectural preservation, and embracing the warmth of the holiday season in a truly unique setting.
Discover the Architectural Treasures: The Homes of Candlelight Christmas
This year’s selection of five stunning homes promises a captivating experience, each offering a distinct charm and a wealth of historical and design inspiration.
The Parham Home – 2516 Ryan Place Drive
Step into timeless elegance at the Parham home, a magnificent two-story neoclassical residence designed by the illustrious Wiley G. Clarkson. Built in 1922, this architectural gem stands as a testament to Clarkson’s celebrated craftsmanship, whose mastery over stone, mortar, and wood defined an era. His meticulous attention to historic detail is evident throughout this elegantly constructed home, from its imposing facade to its intricate interior finishes. Upon entering, guests are greeted by tall, seven-and-a-half-foot mahogany doors that grace the main reception rooms, instantly conveying a sense of grandeur. The ornately carved crown molding, sophisticated over-door pediments and cornices, and soaring ten-foot ceilings evoke the opulent ambiance characteristic of fine homes from this era. Beyond the interior splendor, a stroll through the backyard reveals a gorgeous retreat, meticulously landscaped to offer a serene escape, blending historical charm with natural beauty. The Parham home is a true showcase of Fort Worth’s architectural heritage, beautifully preserved and brought to life with festive decorations.
The Shipley Home – 1030 Elizabeth Boulevard
For those eager to truly take a stroll back in time, the Shipley home offers an unparalleled journey into Fort Worth’s affluent past. This impressive two-story house, built in 1916, boasts a rectangular plan topped with a striking glazed green-tiled hip roof. A full, roof-terraced porch and an expansive terrace, framed by a elegant cast-stone balustrade, extend gracefully across the front of the house, inviting admiration. Originally commissioned by Andrew Jackson Long, a prominent Fort Worth cattleman and banker, the Shipley home is perhaps the last remaining mansion of Fort Worth’s legendary cattle barons, standing proudly in the grand Colonial Revival style. Its interiors are a museum in themselves, furnished with exquisite antiques dating back to 1710, offering a rare glimpse into centuries of refined taste and history. This home is a living testament to an era of prosperity and sophisticated living, promising a deeply immersive historical experience for every visitor.
The West Home – 2530 5th Avenue
At the West home, looks can be wonderfully deceiving! Over a century old, this 1915 residence has undergone thoughtful modifications that gracefully bridge its historic foundations with the demands of the 21st century. While the home’s exterior remains as pristine and captivating as when it was first built, its interior reflects a dynamic and contemporary vision. The owners have transformed the space into an open floorplan, ideal for entertaining and showcasing an impressive collection of Fort Worth artists, whose works adorn nearly every wall. This integration of local art creates a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, reflecting the city’s thriving creative scene. Comfort is also a priority, with cozy reading nooks thoughtfully placed throughout the house, inviting moments of relaxation. The true showstoppers, however, are the central “fireman’s pole” and a captivating floating curved stairway, unique architectural features that add a playful yet sophisticated touch, making the West home a delightful blend of history, art, and modern living.
The Lane Home – 1107 Elizabeth
The Lane Home, a charming two-story brick house built in 1919, exemplifies the perfect harmony between modern living and historical preservation. The current homeowners, who purchased the property in 2014, have embarked on a yearly renovation journey, meticulously blending contemporary elements with antique details. Through these thoughtful updates, they have steadfastly maintained the integrity of the home, preserving its soul through the smallest yet most significant details. This dedication is evident in the retention of original fixtures and the careful refinishing of the home’s original hardwood floors, which gleam with renewed life. The use of bold paint colors and unique finishes infuses the home with distinct personality and undeniable style, making each room a visual delight. Furthermore, a stunning backyard renovation completed in 2018 has transformed the outdoor space into an inviting oasis, making the Lane home an absolute must-see for anyone appreciating a vibrant, artful approach to historic home living.
The Wells Home – 2423 College Avenue
Completing this year’s tour is the exquisite Wells home, a magnificent Georgian Revival Style residence built in 2006. This home represents a fantastic blend of historical architectural influences and modern conveniences, offering a luxurious yet comfortable living experience. Among its many distinguished features are an impressive imperial staircase that makes a grand statement upon entry, dazzling chandeliers that illuminate its elegant spaces, and a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen designed for both culinary artistry and social gatherings. Abundant windows and graceful French doors throughout the house invite natural light and lead seamlessly to a large, inviting backyard. This outdoor haven boasts a recently renovated diving pool, perfect for leisure and entertainment, surrounded by comfortable outdoor living spaces. The owner describes her unique interior aesthetic as “transitional French coastal,” a term she coined to perfectly encapsulate her curated collection of cherished items and design preferences. The Wells home is a testament to how classic elegance can be beautifully adapted for contemporary life, offering a truly inspiring visit.
Beyond the Homes: Special Features & Festive Activities
In addition to the breathtaking homes, the Ryan Place Candlelight Christmas Committee is thrilled to announce an array of special features designed to enhance the tour experience for all patrons and neighborhood residents this year. These activities add layers of holiday cheer, community engagement, and unique opportunities to shop and explore.
BOTH DAYS OF THE TOUR: December 7th & 8th
St. John’s Tea Room – As you pick up your tour ticket and brochure, be sure to make a delightful stop at St. John’s Tea Room. This charming spot will be serving a delicious menu of sweet and savory holiday treats, perfect for a festive snack or light meal. You’ll also find many special gift items, making it an ideal destination for Christmas shoppers looking for unique finds. All proceeds from the Tea Room benefit the St. John’s Youth Group, supporting a wonderful community cause. The Tea Room will be open on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Pedego Electric Bike Tours – For those who prefer a less strenuous way to navigate between the stunning homes, Pedego Electric Bikes offers guided electric bike tours. Avoid the hassle of driving or walking from home to home and enjoy the neighborhood from a fresh perspective. Tours are offered at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. To secure your spot and experience this unique way to explore Ryan Place, book online at www.pedegofortworth.com or call 682-305-8304.
Live Musical Performances – Immerse yourself fully in the holiday spirit with enchanting live musical performances throughout the weekend. We are delighted that this year’s tour will feature the harmonious voices of children’s choirs from local churches and neighborhood schools, filling the air with festive tunes. Additionally, talented local musicians will be featured within several tour homes at various times, adding a beautiful auditory backdrop to your architectural journey. These performances truly elevate the atmosphere, making your visit even more memorable.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7TH: Day-Specific Delights
The Dailey Method Barre Class – Get a head start on those New Year’s Resolutions and join The Dailey Method for an invigorating barre class at Daggett Park at 11 a.m. This special event not only offers a fantastic workout but also connects directly to the community, as tour proceeds will be used to enhance Daggett Park. Voluntary donations will also be accepted at the class and contributed back to the neighborhood, further supporting local improvements. Don’t forget to bring your mat for this energizing start to your Saturday!
Christmas Croquet Tournament – For a unique and festive activity, join Ryan Place’s croquet extraordinaire, Chris Ebert, as he hosts a special edition of Christmas Croquet. Dust off those mallets and prepare for some friendly competition from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 2530 Ryan Place Drive. This lively event is a wonderful way to engage with the community and enjoy a classic game with a holiday twist. To sign up or obtain more information, please contact Chris at [email protected].
The Beignet Bus – In addition to the magnificent sights of holiday decorations and the delightful sounds of holiday music, you certainly won’t want to miss the irresistible aroma of The Beignet Bus’s delicious beignets and freshly brewed coffee. This popular food truck will be open and serving neighbors and tour patrons along the tour route from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering a warm and sweet treat to complete your evening tour experience.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH: Family Fun & Local Crafts
Ryan Place Polar Express Kid’s Train – On Sunday, December 8th, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., children and families are invited to experience the magic of the FREE Ryan Place Polar Express Kid’s Train. The train will load and unload on the southeast corner of Elizabeth Boulevard and Ryan Place Drive. It will depart and run clockwise, heading east on Elizabeth, south on South Adams, west on Robert, and then back north up Ryan Place Drive. This enchanting ride is an experience for all ages, but parents are expected to maintain supervision of their children. All aboard for a festive journey through Ryan Place!
Mustard Seed Jewelry Pop-Up Shop – Make time to stop by the Mustard Seed Jewelry Pop-Up Shop at 2508 College Avenue. They will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., offering tour patrons a unique opportunity to shop for beautiful, hand-crafted jewelry pieces by talented local artisans. Not only will you discover exquisite one-of-a-kind treasures, but 30% of the proceeds from Sunday’s sales will be generously donated back to the neighborhood, supporting local initiatives. To preview their stunning products, visit www.mustardseedjewelry.com.
To gain entry to the magnificent homes, each tour patron must be wearing a valid tour wristband. Children 12 years of age or younger are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a ticketed adult, making it a perfect family outing. Please note that wristbands are only required for home entry; they are not necessary to participate in the exciting extra activities such as the barre class, Polar Express train ride, or Christmas Croquet tournament.
Advance tickets are available for $20 and can be purchased online at ryanplacefortworth.com or in person at Old Home Supply (1801 College Ave). For those who decide last minute, tickets will also be available on tour days for $25, either online or at the conveniently located Ticket Office inside St. John’s Anglican Church (2401 College Avenue) during tour hours. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the event organizers at [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming you to the 35th Annual Candlelight Christmas in Ryan Place for a truly memorable holiday experience!