Winter on Galveston Island might be sunny and warm, but that doesn’t stop our seaside community from getting in the holiday spirit. Beginning in mid-November, Galveston’s “Winter Wonder Island” kicks off the holiday festivities, celebrating the season until early January. If you want to make sure to make the most of the holiday fun, here are the best things to do on Galveston Island for the holidays. Start adding them to your calendar now!
Downtown Lights & Lanterns
November 15 – January 3
Downtown Lights & Lanterns is a beloved Galveston tradition that brightens the downtown streets from November through the New Year. The historic buildings in downtown Galveston will be outlined with holiday lights and festive décor as the city decks the halls of the district’s main corridors. At Saengerfest Park, visitors can snag holiday-themed photos with special, free attractions such as an interactive photo frame and life-sized snow globe, making for memorable photos to share with family and friends.
Thanksgiving & Christmas Brunch at the Hotel Galvez
November 28 & December 25
Reserve your space for these holiday Brunches at the Galvez Bar & Grill, where you will enjoy a traditional meal with all the holiday trimmings in a beautiful and charming venue. Beginning November 4, make your reservations for the highly-anticipated Thanksgiving Brunch, giving you plenty of time to get excited about the delicious spread that will be waiting. Reservations for the Christmas Day Brunch will be taken starting December 1.
The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at The Hotel Galvez & Spa
November 29 (6 pm)
The Hotel Galvez is celebrating its tenth annual Holiday Lighting Celebration, kicked off by the arrival of none other than Santa himself. The free event features performances from The Nutcracker, local choirs, and the Galveston Community Band, as well as, the official lighting of the hotel’s 35-foot Christmas tree.
Saengerfest Park Christmas Tree Lighting
November 30
Come see the lighting of the Saengerfest Park Christmas tree on November 30, and take in the magical sight of the park’s 34-foot tall tree decked out in all its holiday cheer. This is the perfect setting to take your Christmas card photo in the giant, interactive photo frame or in the life-sized snow globe.
Dickens on the Strand
December 6 – 8
For nearly half a century, Dickens on the Strand has been one of the most famous Galveston Island events. Festival-goers will feel as if they’ve been whisked back in time to Charles Dickens’ beloved Victorian London, complete with carolers, vendors in Victorian costumes, one-of-a-kind gifts, and more.
Downtown Laser Light Show on the American National Insurance Building
November 28 – December 25 (Friday through Sunday evenings)
Every weekend from Thanksgiving until Christmas, the American National Insurance Building will serve as the blank canvas for an impressive laser light show. The four-hour-long display puts a fun, modern spin on traditional holiday lights and is a must-see holiday show in Galveston.
Holiday Shopping Downtown
Of course, in addition to all of the holiday events in Galveston, you can also join in on the seasonal cheer by visiting the unique shops and boutiques throughout the Strand District. Many local storeowners decorate their spaces for the holiday season, and you will always find a wide variety of gifts and goodies for friends and loved ones. Here, you will find plenty of holiday magic to make your holiday season one to remember.
Enjoy Year-Round Fun on the Strand
Whether you’re searching for family-friendly activities in Galveston, the perfect hangout spots for a romantic getaway, or the most unique shops and restaurants in the city, there is no better place to be than the Strand National Historic Landmark District. And remember, there is so much to do and see any time of year. Learn more about things to do on Galveston Island and all the highlights of The Strand by exploring the Mitchell Historic Properties’ website today.
