Residents of Preston Hollow are taking proactive measures to manage traffic congestion caused by a popular “Grinch-themed” Christmas display that has gone viral on social media. In response to significant traffic delays and safety concerns, neighbors have obtained a special event permit to restrict access to their street during the holiday season.
The special event permit allows residents to control both vehicle and foot traffic near the display through Christmas, following issues experienced in previous years. The City Council plans to review the situation in 2026 to find a lasting solution that balances neighborhood festivities with public safety.
Last year, the elaborate holiday lights at a home on DeLoache Avenue drew thousands of visitors, who also returned in October for the Halloween decorations. While the displays bring joy to many, they have also frustrated local residents.
Councilwoman Gay Willis, who represents the area, has acknowledged the limited options available to the city in addressing the situation. Through the community group Preston Hollow Citizens for a Safer Community, residents applied for the special event permit, which restricts traffic on weekends throughout December.
The permit aims to manage the influx of visitors and limit disturbances in the neighborhood during the holiday season. “The neighbors are negatively impacted by the traffic, and there are safety concerns,” said resident Randy Zeller. “Overall, I’d say this season has been less intense traffic-wise than last year, so that’s a positive development.”
To enforce the restrictions, the street is monitored by four off-duty police officers, funded by the residents. During designated hours, pedestrians can walk in the area while vehicle access is prohibited. Neighbors have also placed ‘no parking’ signs outside their homes to further alleviate congestion.
The homeowners behind the display have chosen to remain anonymous but provided videos showing the scene of parked cars and visitors walking toward the house.
Looking ahead, Councilwoman Willis expressed hope that the City Council will address this matter in 2026, aiming to find a balance between allowing neighborhood celebrations and managing potential disruptions. Chris Bowers, representing Preston Hollow Citizens for a Safer Community, emphasized the critical nature of the situation, citing severe traffic congestion and safety risks for residents and visitors alike.
Bowers highlighted the dangers posed by the large crowds, particularly for children and pedestrians in the street, as well as the obstruction of emergency vehicles, which presents a significant risk to the community. He criticized the homeowner’s failure to implement safety measures despite the overwhelming traffic issues, asserting that the prioritization of the display over neighborhood safety contradicts the essence of the holiday spirit.
