4th of July Celebrations on Galveston Island

Nothing says "summer on Galveston Island" better than the 4th of July!

This 4th of July, plan to celebrate the country’s – and your – independence on Galveston Island with a parade, fireworks, special events and more!

orange, red, and white fireworks light up the Gulf during a 4th of July fireworks display over the beach in Galveston TX

What events are taking place on the 4th of July in Galveston?

Galveston will host a parade and a fireworks show to celebrate the 4th of July. The parade will feature floats, marching bands, and local organizations, while the fireworks show will light up the night sky over the Gulf of Mexico. See below for more details.

When and where does the parade start?

The parade will begin at 6:00 PM and will follow a route along Seawall Boulevard from 22nd Street to 45th Street.

When and where is the fireworks show?

The show will take place on the beach following the parade (approximately 9:15PM), with the beautiful Gulf of Mexico serving as the backdrop.

Are there any specific vantage points recommended for the fireworks?

The best vantage points for the fireworks include the beachfront along Seawall Boulevard.
The balconies of hotels and restaurants along the Seawall are also great options for getting views of the show.

Where are the best places to park for the 4th of July events?

Recommended parking areas include:

  • Paid parking spots along Seawall Boulevard
  • The parking lot at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
  • Street parking in the neighborhoods adjacent to Seawall Boulevard (be mindful of parking restrictions)

Who can I contact for more information?

For more information, you can contact the Galveston Island Visitor Information Center at (409) 797-5144 or in person at 2228 Mechanic St #101, Galveston, TX 77550.

Independence Day Highlights
Aerial view of floats driving down the street in the 4th of July Seawall parade while spectators watch
Independence Day
Fourth of July Parade

The annual 4th of July Seawall parade will kick off on Thursday, July 4, 2024. The parade will line up at Seawall and 22nd Street and proceed west to 45th Street along the Seawall, where it ends.

Time: 6:00PM

4th of July Fireworks fill the night sky in Galveston, Texas. The light of the fireworks reflects off of the water
Independence Day
Fireworks Over The Gulf

You won't want to miss this stunning display of pyrotechnics as we light up the night sky in celebration of America's Independence Day. The show will take place on the beach, with the beautiful Gulf of Mexico serving as the backdrop.

Time: 9:15PM

Independence Day
Galveston Beach Band Summer Concert Series

Locals and visitors alike look forward to the sweet sounds of classic summer music when the band performs July 4th at 7:30 p.m., at the Eugenia and George Sealy Pavilion, 900 24th Street, directly behind the historic Ashton Villa.

Moody Mansion Exterior
Independence Day
Moody Mansion Galveston Community Band Performance

The Galveston Community Band will perform its annual Fourth of July Concert at Moody Mansion, 2618 Broadway, at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 4. The public is invited free of charge.

Independence Day
Save The Locals FREE Summer Concert Series

Join us for LIVE music this Independence Day at the Menard Park Bandshell. Doors open at 6pm, and live, orginal music from the region's best gets rolling around 6:30 until about 9pm.

Independence Day
Sunset & Sounds: Summer Concert Series at Hotel Lucine

When: July 6 with Telula

Hotel Lucine is partnering with Flexdef & Austin Music Presents to bring you our Summer Concert Series: Sunsets & Sounds.

Independence Day
Music Nights at Saengerfest Park

When: July 6 with Two Tons of Steel

Music nights start at 6:30 p.m. in Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand. Performances are free to the public with on-site beer and wine, select vendors, and a reserved VIP area with reserved seating, complimentary drinks, meet and greets, and more.

Extend Your 4th of July Holiday
Three beachgoers build a sandcastle on the beach in Galveston Island, TX.
Independence Day
FREE Professional Sandcastle Building Lessons

When: July 6, 2024
Where:
East Beach

Attention budding builders – sandcastle builders, that is. Galveston is hosting a free, family-friendly event to help beachgoers create spectacular sandcastles with guidance from a pro.

two groups of people listen to educators from the Bucket Brigade and look at specimens on the beach
Independence Day
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours

When: July 6, 2024

Join the Bucket Brigade in exploring the creatures and features that make Galveston beaches unique! There is more to the Sargassum and turbid water than many people think, and there is much more to be found on the beach than just sand. Tours are educational and fun for ocean lovers of all ages.

Independence Day
Bingo Nights at Galveston Island Brewing

When: July 1, 2024

Prizes every round and fun for the whole family. The Shepherd Mix Food Truck will be on site so come hungry! Play is come and go. Get here when you can and leave when you need to.

Independence Day
Summer Dinner Buffets at Pelican Grille

When: July 5, 2024

Enjoy a dinner buffet at one of the best top ten Golf Courses in the state with a one-of-a-kind view!

Independence Day
Bar 43 Summer Music Series with La Izquierda & Friends

When: July 5, 2024

Come enjoy some amazing talent and free local entertainment from some of the islands best bands & musicians.

Colonel Paddlewheel Boat lit up with lights reflecting in the water during an evening cruise in Galveston TX
Independence Day
Dinner on the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

When: July 6, 2024

Enjoy beautiful views of Offatts Bayou, plus a dinner buffet and cash bar with dinner cruises aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat. Boarding at 6:30 p.m. and cruise begins at 7:00 p.m.

Colonel Paddlewheel Boat lit up with lights reflecting in the water during an evening cruise in Galveston TX
Independence Day
Dinner on the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

When: July 6, 2024

Enjoy beautiful views of Offatts Bayou, plus a dinner buffet and cash bar with dinner cruises aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat. Boarding at 6:30 p.m. and cruise begins at 7:00 p.m.

Look Back on Independence Day 2023
Other Galveston Special Events