Holiday Magic Meets Coastal Charm on Winter Wonder Island

Galveston Island features over 50 days of Christmas and holiday activities!

Galveston transforms the holidays into a coastal celebration. Picture palm trees strung with lights, historic streets glowing with festive charm, and timeless traditions reimagined by the sea. Family-friendly festivities and celebrations steeped in history blend past and present into a magical season you’ll never forget.


Upcoming Events
Our 'Tis Island Time postcard will be available at the Visitor Information Center soon!

Popular Holiday Events

How To Have A Fantastic Thanksgiving on Galveston Island
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Holiday in The Gardens
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Dickens on The Strand
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in Galveston, Texas
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Top Winter Wonder Island Events

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.
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Nov 14 to Jan 16
The Grand 1894 Opera House Holiday Season
Celebrate the holidays with entertainment at Galveston's historic theater featuring performances such as, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, A Prairie Home…
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Nov 22 to Jan 3, 2026
Holiday in The Gardens
Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens is a beloved seasonal celebration that transforms the property into a winter wonderland filled…
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Unique Gifts From Galveston to Inspire Your Holiday Shopping
Skip the big-box stores and discover holiday treasures at Galveston’s small shops and local boutiques.
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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…
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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…
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Dec 5
EEHDA Holiday Home Tours
We invite you to experience a wonderful evening of historic homes festively decorated for Christmas! Tour the interior of private, historic…
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Dec 5 to Dec 7
Dickens on the Strand
Brush off your bowlers and prepare your petticoats as Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 52nd annual Dickens on The Strand. Held…
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Dec 7
Holiday Delights at The Bryan Museum
This year’s event will include the ever–popular pictures with and letters to Santa, a petting zoo, an elf hunt, food trucks…
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Dec 13 to Dec 14
Holiday With the Cranes
Visitors to Galveston, TX are welcome to celebrate the arrival of the majestic Sandhill Cranes wintering on the island. Celebrate the…
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Dec 21
Santa Hustle Race Series
Come join the Santa Hustle® magic on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Beach Central for the Santa Hustle Galveston Half Marathon…
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Download the 2025 Holiday Events Guide

Event Guide

LIVE from ICE LAND at Moody Gardens

Top Guides to a Magical Winter Wonder Island Experience

Discover Dining: Find Your Favorite Galveston Island Restaurant
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Where to Stay in Galveston: Condos, Houses, Resorts, Boutique Hotels and More
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Get in the Know about Historic Downtown Galveston
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Ring in 2026 on Galveston Island!