Each December, the quiet streets of Opelika’s historic district turn into a nostalgic winter wonderland. More than 50 Victorian-style homes are dressed up with vintage life-sized Santas, angels, and holiday figures.

The Victorian Front Porch Tour has become one of the area’s most beloved and longest-running holiday traditions. What began with a few leftover decorations has grown into a picture-perfect celebration that feels like stepping back in time.

It all started nearly 30 years ago when local artist Jan Jones moved into the neighborhood. She had a curated collection of Santa figures and holiday décor from her days creating mall displays. With encouragement from her neighbor, Roseanne Denson, the two decided to spread a little cheer by decorating the porches of Opelika’s historic homes.

"It’s not only an event that you can go and look at really beautiful things… It’s also something that anyone can participate in.”

— Kathryn James, President of the Victorian Front Porch Tour

 

In the beginning, only a few homes joined in with about a dozen porches decorated for the holidays. By 1996, the number had grown to more than 30, and today, over 50 homes are ornately adorned with Victorian charm, turning the neighborhood into a scene straight out of a Christmas story.

As the event grew, the handmade figures that gave the tour its charm began to show their age. That’s when Kathryn James stepped in. She worked with Jan Jones and Mayor Gary Fuller to refurbish the decorations, ensuring the display could continue bringing joy to future generations.

For James, the tour represents more than a holiday display. It’s a connection to Opelika’s heritage.

“What is rich about Opelika is the family lineages. My family has resided on 9th Street for a hundred years. When you’re able to see these houses decorated and lit up from the Victorian era, it’s truly like a storybook and a part of history from another life.”
 — Kathryn James

 

Today, the Opelika Victorian Front Porch Tour spans several blocks throughout the Northside Historic District. Visitors can stroll or drive through the neighborhood to admire the themed decorations, from elegant angels and jolly Santas to carolers, sleighs, and glowing wreaths. Local choirs and musicians often perform during the weekend festivities, filling the air with holiday music as families gather to take in the sights.

“I was on an airplane one time and one of the stewardesses told me he was raised going to the Victorian Front Porch and getting a picture with Santa every year. So you don’t know how widespread it really is. It is such a pleasure.”
 — Jan Jones

What began with a handful of neighbors and a few extra decorations has grown into one of Opelika’s most cherished holiday traditions, drawing visitors from near and far each December. The Victorian Front Porch Tour offers a rare glimpse into the city’s rich history, where each home tells a story through its carefully restored architecture and festive décor. Families, friends, and visitors alike can stroll the streets, take in the details of each decorated porch, and experience the magic of Opelika in a way that truly makes the season unforgettable.

Plan your visit this December and see for yourself why the Victorian Front Porch Tour has become a beloved part of the city’s holiday tradition.