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 or click to download!
Naughty & Nice Certificates
Naughty and Nice Certificates

Download your own version of our certificates from Santa here:

PDF Versions

Popular Holiday Events

Christmas Parade
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The Polar Express Train Ride
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Holiday in The Gardens
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Top Winter Wonder Island Events

Dec 12 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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Dec 12 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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Dec 12 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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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

Christmas Dining

Dec 24
The Garden Restaurant Chirstmas Eve Buffet
Join The Garden Restaurant at Moody Gardens on Christmas Eve in Galveston for a festive holiday buffet featuring seasonal favorites. Enjoy…
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Dec 24
Café in The Park Christmas Eve Buffet
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with Moody Gardens Hotel’s Christmas Eve Buffet at Café in the Park on Wednesday…
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Dec 25
The Garden Restaurant Christmas Day Buffet
Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive buffet offering a variety of classic and seasonal dishes. Enjoy a roast of striploin and…
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Dec 25
Moody Ballroom Christmas Brunch
Celebrate Christmas Day with an unforgettable brunch, featuring chef-crafted dishes from made-to-order omelets and seafood gumbo to herb-roasted entrees and festive…
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Dec 25
Christmas Lunch at Café in The Park
Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive plated lunch at Café in the Park at Moody Gardens Hotel. Enjoy a delicious holiday…
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Dec 25
Café in The Park Christmas Day Buffet
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with Moody Gardens Hotel’s Christmas Buffet at Café in the Park on Wednesday, December…
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Dec 25
Shearn's Christmas Four-Course Dinner
Celebrate the holiday season with a festive four-course dinner at Shearn’s Seafood & Prime Steaks. Start with a creamy roasted garlic…
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Dec 24
A Coastal Christmas Eve at The Fancy
Spend Christmas Eve at the Fancy at Hotel Luicine with a specially curated menu built on Gulf waters and local roots…
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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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Unique Gifts From Galveston to Inspire Your Holiday Shopping
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Ring in 2026 on Galveston Island!