Semiquincentennial Decorated Driving Tour
More Than 30 Homes and Businesses Help Transform Granbury into a Patriotic Showcase as America Approaches its 250th Anniversary
GRANBURY, TEXAS — As America prepares to celebrate its 250th Anniversary, Granbury and Hood County residents, businesses, attractions, galleries, lodging properties, restaurants, and community organizations answered the call to "Paint the Town Red, White & Blue," transforming the community into a vibrant showcase of patriotism, creativity, and American pride.
Launched by Visit Granbury as part of the community's Semiquincentennial celebration, the inaugural Patriotic Decorating Contest invited participants to decorate homes and businesses with flags, bunting, banners, lights, and creative displays of American spirit. More than 30 entries participated, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere that enhanced the visitor experience while showcasing the pride and hospitality that define Granbury.
Officially designated the Celebration Capital of Texas in 2023 and recognized as USA TODAY's Best Historic Small Town in America five times, including 2026 - Granbury continues to lead the way in creating meaningful experiences that honor history, celebrate community, and inspire visitors.
Judging took place aboard the Granbury Trolley as members of the Elizabeth Crockett Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), accompanied by Visit Granbury staff, toured the community to evaluate each entry. Judges faced the difficult task of selecting the top residential and commercial displays from an exceptionally competitive field.
Today, Visit Granbury is proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Patriotic Decorating Contest.
COMMERCIAL CATEGORY WINNERS
The top commercial honor was awarded to Stumpy's Lakeside Grill and Marina for its impressive patriotic displays throughout the property, creating a truly immersive red, white, and blue experience for visitors.
#1 – Stumpy's Lakeside Grill and Marina – 2323 S. Morgan St.
#2 – Shanley House Art Gallery / Lake Granbury Art Association – 224 N. Travis St.
#3 – 817 Sign & Print – 610 E. HWY 377
#4 – Craft House – 205 Kings Plaza Suite 100
#5 – Your Private Collection Art Gallery – 106 N. Houston St.
RESIDENTIAL CATEGORY WINNERS
The residential division proved to be an exceptionally close competition, with judges noting the remarkable creativity, attention to detail, and patriotic spirit displayed throughout the community.
The Historic Home on Thorp Springs Drive, decorated by Lisa Wright, captured the top residential honor with a stunning display that featured patriotic touches in every nook and cranny, including a beautifully decorated swing that delighted judges.
#1 – Historic Home on Thorp Springs Drive by Lisa Wright – 704 Thorp Springs Dr.
#2 – Lemon Drop Cottage by Andy and Cheryl Neil – 125 S. Travis St.
#3 – Treetop Getaway by Sue Ooten – 2006 Mesa Circle
#4 – Stringfellow-Gilmartin Craddock House by Rhonda Pool – 322 W. Bridge St.
#5 – Daniel Harris House by Julia Pannell – 403 W. Bridge St.
GEORGE WASHINGTON AWARD
The Elizabeth Crockett Chapter DAR selected Lemon Drop Cottage (125 S. Travis St.) to receive the special George Washington Award in recognition of its outstanding tribute to America's 250th Anniversary and the nation's rich history.
"Granbury has always been a community that knows how to celebrate, and this initiative exceeded every expectation," said Tammy Dooley, CFEE, Director of Tourism for Visit Granbury. "From beautifully decorated storefronts and galleries to historic homes and neighborhood displays, participants embraced the spirit of America's 250th Anniversary in a way that created lasting memories for both residents and visitors. This is exactly why Granbury proudly holds the designation as the Celebration Capital of Texas."
City Manager Chris Coffman praised the community's response to the initiative. "As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th Anniversary, it is especially meaningful to see our community come together in such a visible and inspiring way," said Coffman. "The creativity, pride, and hospitality displayed throughout this initiative reflect the very best of Granbury.”
While judging for the contest has concluded, the celebration is far from over.
Visit Granbury encourages residents, businesses, churches, attractions, lodging properties, and community organizations throughout Granbury and Hood County to continue displaying their patriotic decorations throughout the summer. Together, they are helping create a one-of-a-kind visitor experience while making Granbury one of the most patriotic destinations in Texas as America approaches its historic 250th Anniversary.
Visit Granbury extends its sincere appreciation to every participant who helped make the inaugural contest a success, as well as the members of the Elizabeth Crockett Chapter DAR for their time and dedication in judging the competition. Their collective efforts transformed the community into a living celebration of American history, patriotism, and hometown pride.
"Community-wide initiatives such as this help showcase the pride, patriotism, and hospitality that define the Granbury experience," Dooley added. "The contest may be over, but the celebration continues, and who knows, this may become a new annual tradition."
For a comprehensive list of 2026 events, click here.
Email inquiries and 250th celebration events to kgerardi@granbury.org or stop by the Visitors Center.
