It’s been a year of wild weather across the globe so we can all expect a holiday season filled with plenty of snow. If you are looking to escape the blistering cold for Christmas this year consider making your way down to Galveston. The Texas Coast offers the perfect hideaway where you can still enjoy holiday-themed events and activities along with still having the beach nearby for a leisurely stroll. Before you know it you will have a new family tradition of spending your holiday each year with us here in Galveston. Take a look at the top reasons why you should spend Christmas in Galveston this year:
Beautiful Winter Weather
While some of us look forward to a white Christmas with the ground covered in snow others prefer to stick to the warmer climate. If you are part of the latter you will have an absolute blast when you visit Galveston for Christmas. The December temps stay in the low 60s for a high during the day and dip into the low 50s at night. This means you can easily go out and explore the attractions of the city and remain comfortable with just a jacket on. Leave your parka at home when you visit Galveston for Christmas this year!
50th Annual Dickens on The Strand
When you visit Galveston you will find that Strand Street is the top destination for downtown businesses here in the city. Each year Strand Street turns back in time to transform the street into Victorian Lond that Charles Dickens experienced. Dickens on the Strand is a lovely holiday festival taking place on Strand Street this year with 2023 being the 50th annual celebration of the festival. There will be nonstop entertainment taking place on multiple stages along with parades, strolling carolers, bagpipers, roving musicians, and much more. Vendors will also be in their best Victorian attire where you can purchase holiday-themed drinks and food. Additional wares also include gifts such as holiday decorations, jewelry, and clothing. The 50th Annual Dickens on the Strand will take place December 1st through the 3rd on Strand Street.
Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens
Each year Moody Gardens transforms into the Holiday in the Gardens, a holiday tradition right here in Galveston that continues to delight families from all over. Moody Gardens is a local entertainment venue that is also a wildlife conservation agency. Holiday in the Gardens continues the rainforest aesthetic in ICE LAND where you can find beautiful ice sculptures that are designed as monkeys, birds, orchids, butterflies, and much more. You will be guided through the world’s rainforests as you make your way to the huge ice slide that will take you from the forest canopy all the way down to the floor. Adults will have an opportunity to find a holiday beverage with a bar made entirely of ice. Another attraction found at Holiday in the Gardens is the Festival of Lights. This festive walkway features a mile-long trail filled with over two million holiday lights and scenes. All of the lights are synchronized with holiday tunes to set the scene. There are even direct views of Galveston Bay where you can sip on your hot chocolate or indulge in some fireside s’mores. If stop by between December 22nd to the 30th you can book a reservation at A Christmas Wish Holiday Spectacular. This is a mesmerizing dinner show that features Broadway-style song and dance, acrobatics, and plenty of holiday spirit. The stunning visuals and incredible performances will have your very own holiday joy reinvigorated. You can find all of this and so much more at this year’s Holiday in the Gardens taking place November 18th through January 6th.
The Polar Express
You need to see to believe when you hop aboard The Polar Express here in Galveston this holiday season. This is a decorated train ride with the theme of The Polar Express on full display. Head over to the Galveston Railroad Museum Train Depot for your departure. The train ride is approximately two hours in length and will take you to the North Pole and back. Live entertainment and a visit with Santa will happen on the train so make sure to be ready for some holiday fun and excitement. Visitors are encouraged to arrive at the museum one hour before their departure to avoid any traffic and get the chance to see the train steam into the museum. The Polar Express train ride is available from November 10th through December 23rd.
More Holiday Spirit in Galveston
Get ready to enjoy all of these Christmas events and activities with your family when you choose Galveston for your Christmas adventure. Our vacation rentals are sure to keep you comfortable and keep you close to all of the local fun.
