Get ready for one last summer adventure by preparing for a Labor Day getaway. Everyone knows that Labor Day typically signals the end of the summer season, as the kids are back in or getting ready to go back to school. Labor Day also offers an extended weekend allowing parents to take time away from work. This means it is a no brainer to plan for an exciting adventure getaway. When looking for your Labor Day destination look no further than Galveston. Our coastal Texas town is an exciting summer destination and will still be providing all of the fun when you visit for Labor Day. Take a look at what the 2024 Labor Day Weekend in Galveston will look like.
Galveston Island Wine Festival
Galveston is a destination that features many exciting events throughout the year to make your stay even more memorable. This includes Labor Day Weekend, as the fan favorite Galveston Island Wine Festival returns to the shores of Galveston. This annual festival is scheduled to take place August 30th through September 1st for a weekend of wine and festivities. The Galveston Island Wine Festival takes place at the Moody Gardens once again so you know that the location will match the excitement of the event. The Galveston Island Wine Festival kicks off that Friday with a Welcome Reception and Seven on Seven Seafood Extravaganza. This is a unique experience where top tier chefs will be on hand to create seasonal dishes that are paired with wines from all over the world.
Return the next evening to enjoy the Penguins & Pinot: Grand Tasting at the Aquarium. As the name suggests, you will be having a wine tasting at the aquarium where you tour the Oceans of the World and enjoy a variety of wine, spirits, and food bites. There will even be marine animal encounters that are sure to take you to new depths! Wrap up your evening with the Wine’d Down After Hours at Palm Beach where live entertainment, dancing, and a dazzling fireworks display will close up the evening.
The Galveston Island Wine Festival will officially come to an end that Sunday with the Bourbon Dinner that provides a sampling of exclusive bourbons and of course delicious food. This is the perfect event for the adults in your group who want to enjoy the finer things of life such as exclusive wine and spirits. Tickets are now available for purchase!
Free Sandcastle Building Lessons
One of the many reasons why Galveston is a popular summer destination is our beautiful beaches. You will find that the numerous beaches give you plenty of room to stretch out under the sun and relax. Galveston is home to many different professional sandcastle builders who you can book to show you how to create your own works of art. Over Labor Day Weekend, however, you can enjoy free sandcastle building lessons over at East Beach. On Saturday August 31st at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM you will find these lessons to be absolutely free. The professionals will be bringing a limited amount of equipment so make sure to bring your own in case the event gets popular. No registration is required in advance, so you can simply show up and learn all about this popular beach activity!
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Tours
Exploring the beaches of Galveston is always a popular pastime so make sure to join the Bucket Brigade as they bring back their Interpretive Tours. These educational tours and a fun way to see the marine creatures and different parts of Galveston beaches. Participants will get hands on activities as you explore the turbid water of Galveston, seaweed, marine debris, and much more. These tours also take place at East Beach and will be available on Saturday August 31st and Sunday September 1st. Each tour last for approximately 45 minutes in length.
Pride at East Beach
Labor Day Weekend is also when Galveston will be celebrating our Pride weekend. Specifically, the festivities will take place on Each Beach along with Robert’s Lafitte bar. The celebration of Pride is a celebration of love and equality that will be complete with pageantry, exciting parties, and much more. The Pride Pageant will crown a Mr. and Miss Pride along with several other exciting highlights. Don’t miss out on the Beach Bash with live DJs and snacks or the Neon Party. There will be endless fun over this three day event taking place over Labor Day Weekend!
Now Is the Time to Book!
Labor Day will be here before you know it, so make sure to book ahead. Our vacation rentals will keep you close to these Labor Day activities while keeping you comfortable. Simply find your favorite rental and get ready for Labor Day Weekend.
We are all looking forward to a thrilling summer season. This time of year is perfect for family getaways as children are on break from school, and the adults will take any excuse to take a few days off work. Kickstart your summer season with a Memorial Day getaway like no other. Many school districts start their summer break right before Memorial Day, making it a great time for your first summer vacation. When planning for one consider coming to Galveston for the holiday weekend. Galveston offers some exciting summer activities and Memorial Day events that will help make your stay one to remember. Here is how you can celebrate Memorial Day in Galveston, TX this year:
Visit Local Museums
Memorial Day is an annual holiday where we celebrate and commemorate our nation’s armed forces. Galveston offers several local museums in town where you can take a look back into the Navy’s presence here in the area. With Galveston having a port it has served as an important local for naval forces. The Texas Seaport Museum is one local museum that is housed alongside the Elissa, a historic vessel that was originally built in 1877. This fascinating vessel was saved from a scrapyard and still makes outings to sea. The onshore museum will detail the ship’s history along with the Port of Galveston. Visitors can also head over to Seawolf Park here in Galveston for more naval vessels. This park features World War II era submarines and destroyers on display. The park features holiday events throughout the year including Memorial Day. Seeing these incredible vessels up close is an exciting way to spend your Memorial Day holiday this year in Galveston.
Visit the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
Another great way to take a look into the historical aspect of Galveston is by visiting the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum. The Gulf of Mexico has been a booming oil industry for decades and the local oil rigs and supply vessels show it. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is an actual oil rig that was built in 1969. You will be able to visit many locations in the rig including the pipe deck and interactive displays. This is a fascinating and unique way to explore the oil and energy field here in Texas.
Day at the Beach
Nothing quite says summer like a day at the beach, and Galveston can more than provide that. Galveston is home to miles of beaches along the coast where you can lay back and take in the sunshine. Specifically, Galveston has the Seawall that stretches for over 10 miles that allows for calm turquoise water to splash around in. One of the best beaches in town to stop by over Memorial Day is Stewart Beach. This beach offers a family friendly environment complete with restrooms, showers, beach equipment rentals, concession stands, kids’ playgrounds, and lifeguards on duty. This is the ideal beach experience for laying out on the sand or taking a dip in the water. For a beach experience that takes you further out into nature, head over to Galveston Island State Park. This area offers boardwalks to explore along with bird watching and kayaking as exciting activities. You simply cannot go wrong with a day at the beach in Galveston.
Head Over to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Make sure your Memorial Day Weekend is a family affair letting everyone enjoy their time away. There is no better place for family fun than the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. You can find the pier right alongside the Seawall where it was first opened in 2012 after the original pier was destroyed in 1961 by a hurricane. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier opens for the season on Memorial Day Weekend letting you be one of the first visitors to the attraction. You will find endless fun here on the pier, including dozens of midway rides and rollercoasters, many of which will take you right over the water! In addition to the carnival rides, you can also find a midway arcade, several restaurants, food vendors, and shops to find gifts. Essentially, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a giant carnival out on the water. Don’t pass up the opportunity to enjoy this local attraction!
A Better Stay at Our Vacation Rentals
As you can see, there is plenty of fun to be had right here in Galveston for Memorial Day. Book your vacation rental with us today to see why our properties will make for the best vacation yet. Each property features luxury amenities that offer comfort like no other. Simply find your favorite vacation home here in our listing and see what your Memorial Day in Galveston can look like.
Spring is officially in full swing by the time we start getting into the months of March and April. Families have a variety of reasons to get out and explore somewhere new during their spring season. Easter is one such occasion that brings families together to celebrate this holiday together. This year, come spend your Easter in Galveston. You will find some exciting spring activities and Easter related events to make your as memorable as possible. Take a look at how your Easter celebration can look what you spend it here in Galveston:
Easter Egg Hunt at Seawolf Park
Ask any child what their favorite part of Easter is, and you will always hear “Easter egg hunt.” This activity lets a child have an enjoyable activity with other peers. Just because you will be away from home this Easter does not mean you have to skip out on your annual Easter egg hunt. You can join in the fun over at Seawolf Park for their traditional Easter Egg Hunt this year. Each year Seawolf Park hosts the Easter egg hunt the Saturday before Easter. That day will fall on March 30th this year for a momentous occasion. The egg hunt starts at 9:00 AM and lasts all the way up to 1:00 PM. It is a free community event where everyone is welcome to join in on the fun. The age range for the hunt is from 0 to 12 years so all the kids can have a blast.
The activities don’t stop there either! The family will also be able to enjoy face painting, taking pictures with the Easter Bunny, and much more. Seawolf Park is one of the top picnic spots in Galveston, so make sure to bring some snacks and relax in the sunshine. There is a local playground for the kids to play on and the area is home to several different historic ships on display. Seawolf Park is also a top spot for fishing where you just have to pay a single fee to join in the fun. Parking is typically $10 per vehicle, but the parking fee is waived when you pay for fishing. Don’t miss out this Easter!
Easter Brunch
One of the top Easter activities for adults is Easter Brunch. There is no day in the year that offers a more extravagant selection of incredible food than Easter. Keep up this tradition here in Galveston by joining one of the many brunch spots here in town. Sunflower Bakery & Café has a charming Easter brunch that includes a delightful selection of entrees. They offer outdoor seating that is fly repellent to make sure you have a comfortable time with your meal. Hearsay on the Strand also features a great Easter brunch. This cocktail lounge can create your favorite morning cocktails such as a Bloody Mary or mimosa. The menu features a variety of food that both adults and children will love too. Easter morning is always a busy time of year when it comes to brunch so make sure to place a reservation well in advance if possible!
Easter Service
For those who celebrate Easter with Easter service, you will find several local churches in the area. Mood Methodist Church typically offers a sunrise service perfect for an early morning start. Seaside Church is another local church found on the western part of the island. Stick around after the service for a community breakfast and Easter egg hunt that everyone is invited to. You will feel like a local when you continue your service celebrations here for Easter in Galveston.
Check Out Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Easter Weekend is not just about finding all the Easter events. Make sure to spend some time under the sun with spring activities. Heading over to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is one great way to do just that. You will be able to enjoy midway style games to try and win prizes. You will also find amusement park rides such as thrilling roller coasters to have a high flying time. The Pleasure Pier is one of the few spots you can enjoy these kinds of rides right over the water. There are plenty of shopping and restaurant stops to so you can easily find a gift to take home or grab a bite to eat. The spring season is one of our favorite times of year!
Join Us for Easter Weekend
Easter is a great time of year for families to spend their time here in Galveston. The city has these exciting activities and much more to keep you engaged with. Find your favorite vacation rental of ours for the best stay in town. Expect fine amenities and close proximities to these Easter activities.
Time seems to be flying by here in Galveston and before you know it Valentine’s Day will be quickly approaching. We might just be getting through the holiday season but planning for a Valentine’s Day adventure will put a smile on your loved one’s face. For this Valentine’s Day come join us here in Galveston for a romantic stay. The area features several romantic activities and events that will make the most of your stay on the Texas coast. Here are the most romantic Galveston Valentine’s Day activities and events:
Explore the Culture of Galveston
Getting to know more about Galveston will help you understand its romantic history. Galveston is a historic city of importance that all comes together in Historic Downtown District. You and your loved one will see the beautiful architecture of famous buildings such as the 1984 Opera House, NIA Cultural Center, and Bryan Museum. When you are not exploring the museum’s detailed exhibits or attending a show at the opera house you can explore the many shops in the area. You will find incredible art galleries with eclectic works on display. Purchase a romantic gift for your partner such as jewelry or clothing for Valentine’s Day. Visitors can also book a tour of Galveston where you will be taken around to many highlights of the city. Tours include options such as red-light tours or even ghost tours. When you explore Downtown Galveston with your loved one, you will not have another thought in the world than their love.
Spend Time on the Beach
Galveston is the top Texas destination when you want to spend a little time on the beach. During your stay, treat your loved one to some time on the beach. You will find miles of white sandy beaches that are a treasure. Take a stroll around sunset to see the sun setting behind the distant horizon as you enjoy time with your loved one. Or set up a picnic with beautiful views of the ocean right next to you. The weather in Galveston in February is always mild so you can easily spend time by the water without freezing. Pack a light sweater or jacket and you will be absolutely comfortable!
Be a Kid Again at Pleasure Pier
Part of a wonderful Valentine’s Day journey is getting to forget about your responsibilities back home and enjoy your time with your loved one. That can include feeling like a kid again by visiting the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. This is your one stop location for all kinds of fun. Enjoy the perfect date day by riding on the dozens of roller coasters and high-flying amusement park rides. Try your hand at winning your date a special trophy by playing in the arcade room. Grab a little dessert by visiting Lolli & Pop’s Candy Shoppe right on the pier that features gourmet chocolate. Explore the many shops exclusive to the pier that overlook the ocean. Enjoy a whimsical adventure together at Pleasure Pier.
Romantic Dining for Two
Valentine’s Day is never complete until you enjoy a romantic dinner for two here in Galveston. Luckily you will have quite a few options to pick from during your stay. This includes heading over to Waterman’s and enjoying their premier views of the bay as you dine on their decadent menu. This restaurant is sprawling in size including their spacious outdoor deck found right next to Waterman’s Marina. Vargas Cut & Catch is the ideal spot for an intimate meal with fine dining seafood. This dinner only restaurant features favorites such as surf n turf, king crab, and more. You simply cannot find a better city to enjoy a romantic meal in. As always, make sure to place reservations for Valentine’s Day evening well in advance as it is a busy restaurant evening.
Hit the Spa
Make you and your loved one feel absolutely rejuvenated by spending a day at the local spa. Galveston features a variety of spas to choose from each with a variety of services. La Moda Salon & Day Spa continues to be a local favorite. They offer your standard services including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. Get your hair done at the salon and look absolutely refreshed just in time for your Valentine’s Day date. Additional spa options include Wellness Spa Massage Galveston and Total Balance Health & Wellness. Galveston will make sure you feel great when in town for Valentine’s Day.
Get Your Romantic Getaway Today
Our selection of luxury homes here in Galveston will make it easy to find the ideal lodging for your Valentine’s Day stay. Explore our listing of properties and pick out the best option you can find. Valentine’s Day has never been this exciting before Galveston.
The holiday season comes to a close when New Year’s Eve makes its head around the corner. It has been a long year, and we are all excited to see what 2024 has to offer. Make the most of your holiday by joining us here in Galveston for a New Year’s celebration. Our Texas home has beautiful sandy beaches along with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy. Best of all our vacation rentals are sure to keep you comfortable during every night of your stay. Take a look at how you can kick off 2024 by enjoying a trip to Galveston.
New Year’s Eve Family Fun
There are a variety of special events happening around Galveston that will help you bring in the New Year. One of these events is New Year’s Eve Family Fun taking place at Galveston Island Brewing Company. As the name suggests Galveston Island is a local brewery that produces tasty, handcrafted beers for you to enjoy. Galveston Island will be hosting their New Year’s Eve Family Fun that will allow young children to enjoy some festivities before it is too late. The event starts at 4:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve where you can pick up some New Year’s Eve swag to put on. A variety of food trucks will be on hand to make sure you find something delicious to eat. At 5:45 p.m. the kiddos can grab sparkling cider before the New Year’s Eve “Countdown” begins at 5:59 p.m. just as the balloon drops at 6:00 p.m. The little ones will have a blast feeling included while the adults can enjoy a pint of their favorite Galveston Island beer. Don’t miss out on this free event for all ages!
New Year’s Eve Glow Party
If you are not traveling with kids and prefer to spend your New Year’s Eve celebration at the closest dive bar, Albatross has you covered. They will be putting on their Glow Party for all adults to attend. The black lights will be turned on so everyone in their best neon attire will light up the room. DJ El Rey will be on hand for plenty of dancing and a 2023 music rewind. The party will take place all night long so show up with your best neon and get to dancing!
New Year’s Palooza at Moody Gardens
The big New Year’s Eve celebration here in Galveston will be taking place at the New Year’s Palooza at Moody Gardens. You may be familiar with Moody Gardens’ exciting attractions and stage shows they perform throughout the year. This upcoming New Year’s Eve celebration will commemorate 25 years of bringing in the new year together. Head over to the Moody Gardens Hotel where the Mambo Jazz Kings will be performing live music, enjoy a memorable champagne toast, and watch an eco-friendly ball drop that counts down to the new year. Don’t forget to catch A Christmas Wish Holiday Spectacular on stage with its incredible dance routines and hilarious comedy acts.
Head to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
During your stay for the New Year’s make sure you get out and see all that Galveston has to offer. This attraction is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy amusement park rides over the water. You will find rides that include the ever-popular Texas Star Flyer, Iron Shark Rollercoaster, and Cyclone to name a few. Whenever you are not riding the big rollercoasters, you can go check out the midway arcade games of the 5D theatre ride. You will find plenty of places to eat at including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and local food vendors. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier will easily provide fun for the whole day!
Check Out the Local Museums
You can always get a little educational during your stay in Galveston by visiting one of the many local museums in the area. The Galveston Railroad Museum will offer an in-depth look into the railroad system here in Galveston. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is always a favorite for all ages to enjoy. The Galveston Naval Museum gives you a look into the naval warships along the Navy’s history here in the city.
Vacation Rentals to Keep You Comfortable
Your New Year’s stay in Galveston will be one to remember when you book one of our desirable vacation rentals here in the area. Each property is individually owned and can offer luxury features such as gourmet kitchens, hot tubs, swimming pools, and en suite bathrooms with soaking tubs. You will find most attractions to be within a short drive away making them easy to get to. Let Galveston be your destination as you bring in 2024 together.
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.
The fall season is finally in full swing so now is the time to start planning for your next family holiday getaway. If you are looking for a holiday time where you can find exciting activities and events look no further than Thanksgiving. It is always best spent being thankful around friends and family but having a great location to do that in is important too. That is why you should come join us for all the holiday fun here in Galveston. Visitors can expect exciting things to do in Galveston on Thanksgiving. Take a look at what you and your family can expect with a Thanksgiving spent in Galveston in 2023.
Galveston Island Turkey Trot
The Thanksgiving holiday is best known for enjoying a delicious feast with friends and family along with celebrating everything you have to be thankful for. Family traditions can look like a variety of things from baking your perfect entrée to putting up your Christmas tree early. One tradition that is common across the States is participating in your local Turkey Trot, usually a 5K race that takes place the morning of Thanksgiving.
Turkey Trots are a great way to engage in some physical activity to help your body prepare for the delicious food coming later in the day. During your time in Galveston make sure you participate in our Galveston Island Turkey Trot. The 2023 race will be the second year making it a more recent addition to activities here in the area. This 5K race is perfect for runners and walkers alike who get to enjoy the incredible views of the Gulf Coast as they enjoy the race.
The Galveston Island Turkey Trot supports HART, a local non-profit that helps organize and support health and fitness here on Galveston. The race will begin at 7:30 a.m. and starts at the McGuire-Dent Recreation Center. Dressing up in your favorite turkey costume is always highly encouraged and is an all-ages event! Registration is required to participate in this year’s Galveston Island Turkey Trot.
Beach Time
While most places in the country will be dealing with the frigid cold weather by Thanksgiving you will find Galveston to still be very mild in terms of temps. Galveston is a beach side destination and you can still expect to enjoy some time at the beach during your Thanksgiving stay. Galveston features 32 miles of beaches so you will have plenty of room to find a spot to relax at. Head over to East Beach for one of the most popular beaches in the area. This is also the location of the boardwalk and pavilion and is home to a variety of entertainment throughout the year. It is also one of the few beaches that permits alcohol so you can enjoy an adult beverage, so you kick back on the sand. Stewart Beach is a great family-friendly beach with amenities including outdoor showers, lifeguards, playgrounds, and more.
Galveston ArtWalk
Throughout the year the Galveston ArtWalk will take place in the city every six to eight weeks. Historic downtown Galveston will transform into a sprawling art walk and Thanksgiving Weekend is always the biggest one of the year. Walk along the Strand Historic District along with Postoffice Street District to see all kinds of holiday lights strung and lit up on the street. You will find yourself in the holiday spirit in no time. Best of all, you can purchase incredible art found nowhere else and support local artists here in Galveston.
Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
Not every family wants to spend their time on vacation for hours in a kitchen preparing a Thanksgiving feast. If you are in this mood this year, fret not as Galveston has many restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving for you to dine out at. Treat yourself to an upscale meal at a local steakhouse such as Landry’s Prime Seafood and Steaks. Enjoy a special Thanksgiving menu that features all your favorite entrees and sides.
Gaido’s is one of the most premium seafood restaurants here in Galveston and does not disappoint. For Thanksgiving they offer a special Thanksgiving buffet so you can enjoy all you can eat. Expect special turkey dishes but also incredible seafood, a specialty for Gaido. Another popular seafood restaurant in town that offers a Thanksgiving meal is Miller’s Seawall Grill. The place fills up quick so make sure to show up early whenever you go. Reservations are always highly encouraged when dining out on Thanksgiving Day.
Book Today for Galveston
There is no better time to explore your own option for a Thanksgiving getaway to Galveston. Our vacation rentals will keep you close by all these exciting activities and more. Explore our luxury properties for the best stay in town.
Summer is officially over so you know that the fall season is right around the corner. The temps are slowly dropping allowing everyone to get out from underneath the A/C and travel somewhere new. If you are looking for an ideal fall getaway spot, look no further than Galveston. Our Texas coastal home is a great spot to spend a vacation getaway too and Halloween is the perfect excuse. There are plenty of fall related and Galveston Halloween activities and events to enjoy here in the area. Here is how to spend your Halloween with us in Galveston:
Island Boo Fest Trunk or Treat
Parents always want to make sure they provide a safe and fun place for their children to trick or treat at. This can be especially hard when you are visiting somewhere new for the first time. Luckily Galveston has you covered with the 2nd annual Island Boo Fest Trunk or Treat happening in town. The Galveston Golf Cart Society is proud to bring this event back for another round this year to benefit the Galveston County Food Bank. All children ages 2 to 12 years of age are encouraged to participate in the free trick of treat. Trick or treat bags are provided to each child for free. Additional activities are also available at the Haunted Mayfield Manor. Since the Galveston Golf Cart Society is putting on the event you are free to bring a golf cart to the event to drive around in at Saengerfest Park. In addition to trick or treating there will also be a golf cart decorating contest too. Make sure to bring canned goods for the food drive. The Island Boo Fest Truck or Treat is taking place Saturday October 29th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Saengerfest Park.
Galveston Ghost Stories
Come take a look in to the storied history of Galveston by visiting Menard House here in town. From October 21st through the 28th Menard House will be offering tours of the property. 1838 Menard House is the oldest home in Galveston and shares some of the most haunted experiences. Each tour will offer you a look into the house while you walk around hearing about its haunted history. Adults of drinking age will also be offered complimentary beverages including beer and wine on the porch before the tour begins. Tickets are available for purchase for this spooky event!
Island Oktoberfest
Not all events you enjoy during your Halloween stay have to be directly associated with the holiday. Feel free to check out all the incredible fall related activities and events in the area too such is Island Oktoberfest. This is the city’s main Oktoberfest event and has been going strong for 40 years! Island Oktoberfest is three days full of Oktoberfest activities that include arts and crafts, live music with dancing on two stages, children’s activities, and so much more. Admission into the event is always free and German attire is always encouraged for festival goers. Of course, it would not be Oktoberfest without delicious German beer to go around. So, grab your stein and visit Island Oktoberfest taking place Friday October 27th through Sunday October 29th.
Ghost Tours of Galveston
As you have gathered with information about the tours of Menard House, Galveston has a rich storied history like no other. Menard House is not the only spot in town that offers spooky details into the unknown. Join a tour with Ghost Tours of Galveston Island where you can enjoy a tour like no other. These tours pride themselves in digging into the endless history to provide you with a thorough recount of what makes the spooky hauntings and stories of Galveston so interesting. You will not find cheap costumes or tricks with their tours but instead a new level of detail. Some of their tours available for the Halloween season include their Vampire Tour, Galveston Cemetery Ghost Tour, and Dash Beardsley Restless Spirits Tour. Their Original Ghost Tour on the Strand is the original offering and continues to be the most popular tour year to year. You will hear about all the hauntings of the Strand district that have shaped Galveston to what it is today. Reservations are required in advance so purchase your tickets with Ghost Tours of Galveston.
More Halloween Fun in Galveston
As you can see Galveston has all kinds of Halloween and fall-related fun when you visit for Halloween. To have the best experience possible, make sure to reserve one of our vacation rentals for your stay. You will enjoy spacious and privately owned homes with all the amenities and features you could want. Look today at our current selection of Halloween homes just in time for your visit to Galveston.
If you still have yet to make the most of your summer plans this year, you are running out of time. It may seem like summer just started, but before you know it the kids will be back at school and fall will be just around the corner. Make sure your summer ideas find fruition by booking a vacation getaway to Galveston this Labor Day. The extended holiday weekend is a great time to see the beautiful Texas coast and enjoy a variety of activities. Take a look at how you can spend your Labor Day Weekend in Galveston, Texas.
Free Sandcastle Building Lessons
Galveston is a well-known beach destination here in Texas where you will find plenty of sandy areas to relax. Of course, the kids will want to try their hand at sandcastle building, so make sure you have the property tools. Luckily, East Beach right here in Galveston will be offering free sandcastle building lessons on Saturday the 3rd at three different times. You will not need to register in advance and all of the equipment is provided. The lessons do have limited space, so arriving to East Beach early is highly encouraged. Your family will be shown how to make the most of sandcastle molds and equipment to create your own masterpiece on the beach. This is an exciting activity that is also easy on the wallet! The free sandcastle building lessons will take place on Saturday September 3rd at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM.
Interpretative Tours with Bucket Brigade
The beach of Galveston is home to some truly unique creatures, and you will be able to learn all about them with the interpretive tours put on by Bucket Brigade. This local organization will be exploring the Galveston beaches on Saturday and Sunday or Labor Day Weekend for some hands-on activities. Guests will want to make their way to East Beach where the organization will be discussing different topics that impact beaches including the turbid water, seaweed, and marine debris, among other topics. Each tour is approximately 45 minutes in length and is offered on a rotating basis on both Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy this activity that is perfect for ocean lovers who make the trek to Galveston.
Sunrise Yoga
Last but not least, join Yoga Haven and SUP Gulf Coast for a Sunrise Yoga at the Beach on Saturday September 3rd. You will be able to start your day off with the gentle beauty of ocean waves and local wildlife. After your yoga session has come to a close hit the waves with a surfboard or paddleboard. If you venture out far enough, you may even get to see dolphins swimming around in the water! Vacation does not sound more relaxing than that!
Explore Moody Gardens Aquarium and Rainforest
Galveston is home to some truly stunning attractions, each more amazing than the last. Moody Gardens features some immersive attractions with their aquarium and rainforest. Their 1.5-million-gallon aquarium features some mesmerizing critters that includes sharks, seals, penguins, jellyfish, tropical fish, and so much more. You will get to learn all about ocean conservation as you walk through immersive exhibits. After you are done visiting one of the biggest aquariums in the southwest, make your way over to the Rainforest Pyramid. This huge tree top canopy exhibit features endangered wildlife and plants from rainforests of the world. Take a look at the river otters or spend time looking at the Komodo dragons. A variety of birds call the tree top canopy home. Moody Gardens also features the Discovery Pyramid where you can find hands on exhibits for inquisitive minds. Learn about making music, mess around with robotics, learn all about waves, and so much more. The most daring of guests can even take on the zip line and ropes course too.
Visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
There is no attraction in the area more popular or well-known than the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. This historic attraction features your favorite midway games. Enjoy a variety of rollercoaster rides including the Iron Shark Sky Shooter. The 5D Theater will hit all of the senses for a memorable experience. There is plenty of food on hand too with Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and a variety of food vendors to choose from. Make sure to inquire about their special deal tickets that can get you entry into Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and other nearby attractions for one low cost!
Galveston Is Waiting
Make sure to find your favorite vacation rental with us today to keep you close to the Galveston coast and these other nearby activities. Our rentals will keep you comfortable while having the summer adventure you have been waiting for.
If you are looking for the ideal spot to spend Memorial Day Weekend this year, look no further than Galveston. Our Texas home has plenty of fun and excitement here that makes for an incredible vacation getaway anytime of the year. This includes Memorial Day, which sets up the rest of our summer season. With so many activities and events in the area, you will not want to spend your holiday weekend anywhere else. Take a look at some ways to enjoy your Memorial Day in Galveston:
2023 Memorial Day 10K & 5K
Help honor the men and women who have dedicated their lives to our US military with the annual Memorial Day 10K & 5K. This is your typical 10K or 5K race that takes you around Galveston for some enjoyable racing experience. All attendees will be provided with a timed race where your finish time will be tracked by a chip. All 10K and 5K finishers will receive a medal for participating in the race and a unisex t-shirt. Make sure you register today before this popular Memorial Day race is all booked up!
Enjoy a Weekend Adventure Pass
One of the top attractions in Galveston is Pleasure Pier that is located right on the water. Each weekend, visitors can purchase a Weekend Adventure pass that allows you to enjoy attractions such as the Pleasure Pier, Kemah Boardwalk, and Downtown Aquarium Houston from Friday to Sunday of the weekend of your pass. This allows you unlimited entry into all three attractions for one great price. Memorial Day Weekend takes this special day one step further by allowing it to also be used on Memorial Day for a total of a four-day weekend! This means the amusement park rides at Pleasure Pier are fair game. Enjoy rides such as the Iron Shark Rollercoaster, Texas Star Flyer, Galaxy Wheel, Pirate’s Plunge, and many more. Or try out the 5D theater ride that includes a trip down to the Mysterious Underworld this Memorial Day holiday. Pleasure Pier also features their own personal midway arcade with games such as whack-a-mole, balloon pop, and other amusement park games. And that is just one attraction available on the weekend pass!
Kemah Boardwalk is found just north of Galveston and is a quick drive away. This is another great amusement park found right by the water. This family friendly entertainment complex includes more retro rides, including a two-story carousel and wooden rollercoaster. The property also includes a boardwalk where you can walk alongside the water for beautiful views and a small aquarium. Speaking of aquariums, the Downtown Aquarium Houston is the final stop with your Weekend Adventure Pass and just 30 miles north of Kemah. This is a huge aquarium filled with all kinds of fun. You will find giant habitats that include incredible underwater critters such as sharks, rays, sea turtles, and many more. The aquarium also has a variety of rides along with a stingray reef where you can pet and feed the stingrays. Downtown Aquarium Houston also features a loveable tiger that is viewable from its comfortable exhibit. There is so much to see and do when you purchase a Weekend Adventure Pass for Memorial Day Weekend!
Memorial Day Weekend Cruise In
Another great event taking place Memorial Day Weekend is the Memorial Day Weekend Cruise In, a classic car show like no other. This event is perfect for those with their own classic car that they want to show off or for attendees who wish to see some cars in person. This event takes place on Saturday May 27th 2023 and will provide an evening of fun. Some activities on hand include live music, food trucks, ice cold drinks, and much more. This is a family friendly event with no alcohol served. Expect to see incredible vehicles such as hot rods, classic cars, motorcycles, and custom builds. The kiddos can have a blast with yard games as dad gets to see his favorite cards. Entry is just $5 for both participants bringing in their own vehicle or for spectators.
Hit the Beach
Make sure to spend some of your time in Galveston for Memorial Day on the beach. There are 32 miles of beautiful beaches here in Galveston on which to relax. One of the most popular beaches is Babe’s Beach that features the historic seawall that is important for Galveston’s development. Visitors can also find water-based fun, including boating, fishing, surfing, and kayaking from the beach too. There is something for everyone when they come to a Galveston beach.
Memorial Day Is Upon Us
Get ready for a thrilling Memorial Day Weekend when you choose Galveston for your holiday destination. Make sure to book one of our vacation rentals here in the area.