Dickens on The Strand: World-Famous Victorian Holiday Festival to Take Place in Galveston Dec. 5-7

Galveston Island, Texas (December 2, 2025) - A landmark event more than fifty years in the making, Dickens on The Strand, returns to Galveston's historic downtown Dec. 5-7. Hosted by the Galveston Historical Foundation, this cherished festival transforms the island into the Victorian London of Charles Dickens, showcasing the unmatched architecture of the era.

Based on 19th-century London, the annual holiday street festival features parades, non-stop entertainment on multiple stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers, and other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares, offering holiday food and drink, as well as Victorian-inspired and modern crafts, clothing, jewelry and more. Festival goers are encouraged to don their own version of costumes inspired by the era to receive a festival admission discount.

Each year, Dickens on The Strand welcomes representatives from the Charles Dickens family. This year's event features Oliver “Ollie” Dickens, his great-great-great-grandson..

NEW in 2025
The Family Life of Charles Dickens
Dec. 4, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway
Oliver Dickens, a great-great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens will draw on a deep knowledge of family anecdotes, during this special lecture. Oliver brings to life the world of his famous ancestor with warmth, humor, and authenticity. He has shared his perspectives at cultural festivals and literary events worldwide, offering audiences a personal and illuminating look at the life and legacy of one of the greatest storytellers of all time. Tickets are $10.

Special Dickens Events
Buckingham Palace VIP Area
Dec. 6, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Dec. 7, 12-6 p.m.
2228 Strand
Presented by the British Consulate-General Houston: VIP tickets include access to the Buckingham Palace VIP area with special programming, meet & greets, photo opportunities, drinks, and more on both days. Two-day tickets are $100.

Jubilation Ringers Handbell Concert
Dec. 5, 8:30 – 9:30 p.m.
1859 St. Joseph’s Church, 2202 Ave. K
Known for its exceptional acoustics, the breathtaking 1859 St. Joseph’s Church opens its doors for three special handbell concerts performed by League City UMC. These Dickens on The Strand traditions sell out annually, so be sure to get your reservations in advance, as seating is limited in this intimate setting. Tickets are $25.

General Festival Information
Fezziwig’s Beer Hall
Friday, Dec. 5
Hours: 5-9 p.m.
22nd Street between Strand and Mechanic
Admission: Free
On Friday night, guests are invited to kick off the festival at Fezziwig’s Beer Hall, located on 22nd St. between Strand Street and Ship Mechanic’s Row. Here, amid a jovial atmosphere, guests will enjoy live entertainment, plus hearty beers and plenty of toasting.

Dickens on the Strand
Saturday, Dec. 6
Hours: 10 a.m.– 9 p.m.
Admission: $25 for adults, $18 for youth (Attendees in costume will receive half-price admission)
Entertainers and vendors line the Strand Historic District on Saturday. Hear choirs and see circus performances throughout the day. The highly anticipated Queen’s Parade will roll through downtown at 2 p.m., followed by the Dickens Costume Contest at 3:30 p.m. The Pickwick’s Lanternlight Parade will illuminate the area at 6:30 p.m.

Dickens on the Strand
Sunday, Dec. 7
Hours: 12-6 p.m.
Admission: $25 for adults, $18 for youth (Attendees in costume will receive half-price admission)
Entertainment begins at noon and The Queen’s Parade will roll through downtown at 2 p.m. At 4 p.m., the Dickens Dash, a half-mile foot race will take place followed by the highly anticipated Victorian Bed Races, with teams competing in a mad dash to be the first to get their “sleeping” bedfellow across the finish line, at 4:30 p.m.

Tickets at the gate are $25 for adults and $18 for youth, with discounted rates for GHF members. Attendees in Victorian costumes receive 50% off entry. Tickets can be purchased online at www.galvestonhistory.org.

ADDITIONAL MEDIA CONTACT:
Will Wright, Chief Creative Officer
Office: 409-765-3424
Email: will.wright@galvestonhistory.org

MEDIA RESOURCES:
To download b-roll video footage or high-resolution images and for more information on holiday events in Galveston, visit www.visitgalveston.com/media

About Galveston Island,
Galveston Island is a historic beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico just 50 miles from Houston. The island is best known as a vacation destination, offering 32 miles of beaches, a variety of family attractions, Texas’ premier cruise port and one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country, including several National Historic Landmarks. Galveston Island is the birthplace of Juneteenth and home to popular amusements such as, Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, as well as a variety of museums and recreational activities from surfing to birding. For more information on Galveston Island visit www.visitgalveston.com.

Media Contact
Mary Beth Bassett
Sr. Public Relations Manager
Visit Galveston
Office: 409-797-5152
Email: mbassett@visitgalveston.com

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