Holiday in The Gardens

As Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens, it has become a holiday tradition as families throughout the region are offered a very diverse range of attractions to complement ICE LAND.

Experience ICE LAND, stroll through the Festival of Lights, and so much more at Moody Gardens' annual Holiday in The Gardens festivities right here in Galveston, TX.

Date(s): November 18, 2023 – January 6, 2024

Children walking through Festival of Lights Galveston
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Holiday in the Gardens Festivities
Holiday in The Gardens

Experience the vibrancy of rainforests with the monkeys, birds, butterflies, and orchids, as Christmas-decked leaf-cutter ants lead you through a magical world, intricately carved from ice. The talented team of master ice carvers will guide guests on an extraordinary journey through the world's rainforests, complete with a giant ice slide that transports guests from the canopy to the forest floor, past ancient ruins, and along river edges. There is even an opportunity to enjoy Shivers Ice Bar featuring festive holiday spirits inside this ultra-cool bar made completely out of ice.

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Holiday in The Gardens

This year, the holiday season will shine brighter than ever with an event that has become a tradition for families and groups alike. Enjoy a festive stroll along this mile-long trail featuring more than two million lights and lighted scenes themed to holiday music that take you around the Moody Gardens property with spectacular views of Galveston Bay. Stops along the way bring you to see Star the Dancing Tree of Light, concession areas, hot chocolate, fireside S'mores and other festive foods, and mistletoe, along with plenty of photo and selfie opportunities!

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Holiday in The Gardens

December 22 - 30 | Moody Gardens Hotel

Embark on a magical journey like no other at Moody Gardens' "A CHRISTMAS WISH HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR." This spellbinding dinner show combines the artistry of Broadway-style song and dance with mesmerizing acrobatics and enchanting Christmas magic. The heart of the show lies in a captivating story of rediscovering the holiday spirit. Join our lead character, Natalie, on her transformative adventure as she dives into her cherished childhood memories inside a magical snow globe. With spirited characters, stunning visuals, and electrifying performances, this show is a heartwarming spectacle that will reignite your holiday joy!

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Holiday in The Gardens

Open Nightly: Starting at 6PM when the Festival of Lights trail opens. You must enter through the Festival of Lights trail to access the Ice Skating Rink (Ice Skating is included with your Festival of Lights ticket in the evenings!)

Rent the Rink: Rent out the Ice Skating Rink for your own private function for $150 for 1 hour. Call (409) 683-4203 for details.

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Holiday in The Gardens

Enjoy the beloved animated television classic as the magic of 4D engages all of your senses. Classic songs and dialogue are brought to life by loveable, iconic characters – the Abominable Snow Monster, Hermey the elf, Santa Claus and, of course, Rudolph “the most famous reindeer of all.

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Additional Holiday in The Gardens Attractions

  • Enjoy the fun with a festive glide down the Arctic Slide.
  • See your favorite holiday films in 3D on the largest screen in Texas.
Holiday Dining
Holiday Dining
Breakfast with Santa

Location: Moody Gardens Hotel Frances Moody Ballroom
Date(s):
December 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 & 22
Time(s):
Seating at 8:30am and 10am

Enjoy breakfast with Santa this holiday season! Breakfast includes a meet and greet with Santa, souvenir photo and a delicious buffet featuring biscuits and gravy, waffles, omelet station, fresh fruit and more!

Holiday Dining

Accepting walk-ins only. No reservations are required. For booking groups of 20+ individuals, please get in touch with AttractionSales@moodygardens.org.

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Holiday in The Gardens
New Year's Palooza

Ring in the New Year at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center. The evening will begin with light bites followed by dinner with a spectacular Holiday Show, a walk through the Festival of Lights trail and plenty of games and activities. Stay up with us to countdown to the new year and watch our very own take on the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.

Travel Packages
Holiday in The Gardens

Enjoy the holiday season with breathtaking views of our holiday lights with an overnight stay at the spectacular Moody Gardens Hotel. A variety of packages are available.

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More Holiday Experiences
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Upcoming Events

See what's on the horizon in Galveston this weekend.

Amazing festivals, food- and drink-related celebrations, special events and more - there's always something to do in Galveston, Texas.
There are future dates for this event.

1 Hope Blvd
Galveston, Texas 77554

2217 Strand, Suite 107 - B
Galveston, TX 77550

There are future dates for this event.

2701 Market St
Galveston, TX 77550

8423 Stewart Rd
Galveston, TX 77550

1 Hope Blvd
Galveston, TX 77554

There are future dates for this event.

2828 Seawall Blvd
Galveston, TX 77550