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. Enhance your getaway with our Galveston vacation rentals with a fitness room or enjoy waterfront convenience with our rentals featuring a boat slip.
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 in the West End and beyond 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.
Each year we celebrate our mothers as a society by showing our love and affection for them. Skip out on something small such as a thank you card or bouquet of flowers and instead, treat your mother to an incredible trip. Galveston is a top destination in the state of Texas and offers some thrilling attractions and activities. A vacation getaway in one of these spots will be made complete when you also book one of our vacation properties. Take a look at what your mother can expect with a vacation getaway for Mother’s Day in Galveston:
Hit the Spa
The best way for your mother to have a moment to feel refreshed is by hitting the local spa. Luckily, Galveston offers popular spas and salons that will help her feel rejuvenated. Make sure your mother stops by Total Balance Health & Wellness for incredible services at a friendly price. Tonie Wingate showcases services that include a variety of massage therapies including Swedish massages, warm stone massages, sports massages, and even pregnancy massages in case your wife is expecting and celebrating this Mother’s Day. LuLu’s The Salon & Spa includes various hair care too for a true salon experience. Start with the massage and finish with a great haircut. Another great option is found at The Greenhouse Day Spa where your mother can clear her body and mind in a boutique environment.
Mother’s Day Dinner
Galveston offers a variety of restaurants that will be a perfect spot to take your mother to dinner. Check out Gaido’s for a long-servicing seafood restaurant. Gaido’s originally opened up in 1911 and has become a staple among the fine dining community. The nautical theme inside meshes perfectly with the fresh seafood and steak-filled menu. They also offer their Gaido’s Famous Pecan Pie which is sure to satisfy any sweet too. If your mother wants to add in a little Cajun spice head over to Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks where the combination of Louisiana-inspired entrees and hand-crafted libations come together. Make sure to check out reservations for Mother’s Day in advance.
Visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
For those coming to Galveston, you cannot pass up on the opportunity to take your mother to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Have her feel like a kid again by walking along the beautiful waterfront that especially stands out at sunset. The entertainment pier offers various boutique shops and restaurants to check out. You can purchase pier-only access tickets or a full ticket that includes access to the carnival theme rides such as the Ferris Wheel.
Book One of Our Vacation Rentals
You will find our exclusive selection of high-end vacation rentals in Galveston. Your mother can enjoy a private home that includes all of the amenities such as spacious common areas, gourmet kitchens, large outdoor patios, spa-like bathrooms, and even swimming pools. Enjoy a spacious home away from others or a modern loft close to downtown. You will not find a better selection of homes in Galveston so make sure to book one today for your upcoming plans for Mother’s Day. Simply find your favorite property in our listing and contact our team today!