How To Have A Fantastic Thanksgiving on Galveston Island

This Thanksgiving, make the holiday unforgettable.

Gather your loved ones and head to Galveston Island. Relax at a cozy beach house, enjoy festive dinners and buffets, explore historic sites, or kick off the season with Winter Wonder Island's magical holiday events, all set against the backdrop of palm trees and the refreshing Gulf Coast breeze.

Thanksgiving Weekend Experiences

Nov 14 to Dec 23

The Polar Express Train Ride

An immersive family-oriented experience at the Galveston Railroad Museum held every year during the holiday season.

Holiday in The Gardens

Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens, where ICE LAND, sparkling lights, and family traditions create magical holiday memories.

Holiday Magic Meets Coastal Charm on Winter Wonder Island

Unique Gifts From Galveston to Inspire Your Holiday Shopping

Skip the big-box stores and discover holiday treasures you can only find on Galveston Island

Nov 25 to Dec 31

Daiquiri Time Out Miracle Pop-Up Bar

As the holiday season unfurls its magic, Galveston’s Daiquiri Time Out (DTO) transforms into a wonderland of festive cheer, hosting the…

Nov 27

Galveston Island Turkey Trot

Join Galveston Island Running Co. for the 4th Annual Galveston Island Turkey Trot. A beautiful, flat course on the famous Galveston…

Nov 28 to Nov 29

The 4th Annual Nutcracker Market

It's a magical time of the year at the Nutcracker Market at Moody Gardens!Get ready for an enchanting experience at the…

Nov 29

Holiday at Hendley Green

Join Galveston Historical Foundation for a Dickens on The Strand sneak peek and holiday party at Hendley Green. This free-to-the-public event…

Nov 29

The Official City of Galveston Tree Lighting

Join the City of Galveston, the Historic Downtown Strand Seaport Partnership, and Galveston Historical Foundation for the official city tree lighting…

Thanksgiving Dinners & Buffets

Let someone else handle the holiday cooking with Galveston’s lineup of festive dining options.
Local restaurants and hotels serve up everything from classic turkey dinners to coastal-inspired spreads. Craving tradition or something a little different? You’ll find plenty of flavorful ways to celebrate Thanksgiving here.

Nov 27

Shearn's Thanksgiving Four-Course Dinner

Celebrate Thanksgiving in style with a decadent four-course meal crafted by Executive Chef Bobby Ross, featuring seasonal favorites like roasted acorn…

Nov 27

Moody Ballroom Thanksgiving Brunch

Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with a lavish brunch showcasing made-to-order omelets, red velvet waffles, fresh seafood, seasonal salads, and chef-carved meats. Indulge…

Nov 27

Thanksgiving Brunch at The San Luis Resort

Join The San Luis Resort on Thursday, November 27, in the Grand Ballroom of The San Luis Resort for the island's…

Nov 27

Grand Galvez Sumptuous Brunch Buffet

Grand Galvez, Autograph Collection will elevate the Thanksgiving Day celebration on Thursday November 23, with an exquisite buffet brunch featuring an…

Nov 27

Café in The Park Thanksgiving Lunch

Celebrate Thanksgiving in Galveston with a delicious plated lunch at Café in the Park. Savor herb-roasted turkey breast, tender beef filet…

Nov 27

Café in The Park Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet

Celebrate Thanksgiving at Moody Gardens with a festive buffet at Café in the Park! Gather with family and friends to enjoy…

Nov 27

The Garden Restaurant Thanksgiving Buffet

Celebrate Thanksgiving in Galveston with a bountiful holiday buffet featuring chef-curated specialties and classic seasonal favorites. Savor carved roast ribeye, roasted…

Nov 27

2025 Gaido's Thanksgiving Buffet

Make this Thanksgiving one to remember with a coastal feast at Gaido’s, a Galveston dining tradition since 1911!Enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet…

Nov 27

Aunt Lucine's Thanksgiving at The Fancy

Pull up a chair for Aunt Lucine’s Thanksgiving, a holiday supper on the Texas Gulf Coast. Enjoy roast turkey ballotine, seasonal…

Nov 27

Thanksgiving Brunch at Hilton Galveston Island Resort

Join us on Thursday, November 27 in 5400 Bistro for a delightful brunch buffet featuring a delicious spread of holiday favorites…

Thanksgiving Catering Packages

Check out the catering menu from Galveston's own Chef Mary Bass and let her take some of the prep work off your plate!

The Gumbo Diner

In addition to being open for Thanksgiving, The Gumbo Diner will have turkey dinner plates you can pick up and take home.

Nov 26

Thanksgiving Ready to Heat Meals at Moody Gardens Golf Course

Celebrate Thanksgiving the easy way with a delicious Ready to Heat Meal from Moody Gardens Golf Course. Enjoy all your favorite…

Learn More

Author

Valerie Romero

Galveston Fan

I grew up just a short drive from Galveston, and I’ve always been drawn to its coastal charm. Being someone who enjoys a live music performance, shopping local, and spending my free time at the beach, Galveston continues to inspire both my work and my weekends.