Galveston Annual Events

Spring Events

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Galveston. The city is abuzz with activity, and there are many exciting events taking place. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone.

One of the most anticipated events in Galveston during spring is the Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival. This festival brings together some of the best chefs and wineries in the area, and attendees can sample delicious food and drinks while enjoying live music and entertainment. With over 100 varieties of wine to try, this is an event that food and wine lovers won't want to miss.

The annual Historic Homes Tour is another event not to be missed since Galveston is known for its historic homes and rich history. Every year, the city hosts an annual historic homes tour, which provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the beautiful homes and learn about the history of the city. The tour features a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Greek Revival, and Colonial. Many of the homes were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and have been beautifully restored to their original grandeur.

Featherfest & Nature Photo Festival is an annual event held in Galveston that celebrates the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast region. The festival is organized by the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council and features a variety of events and activities, including birding tours, photography workshops, and educational seminars. The festival offers guided birding tours led by experienced guides who know the best spots to find different bird species. Visitors can see everything from shorebirds and waterfowl to raptors and songbirds.The festival is designed to appeal to both experienced birders and photographers, as well as those who are just starting out.

Another popular event in Galveston during spring is the Galveston Island Beach Revue. This vintage-inspired event celebrates the glamor of the 1920s and 1930s, and includes a vintage car show, a bathhouse competition, and a swimsuit contest. Attendees can enjoy live music, dance performances, and delicious food while taking in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Beaches and Parks are open for those who enjoy the outdoors and spring is a great time to visit Galveston. The city has many parks and beaches where visitors can relax and soak up the sun. One of the most popular parks is the Galveston Island State Park, which offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and birdwatching opportunities. The beach at Stewart Beach Park is another popular spot, and visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball. The locally owned Porretto Beach boasts plenty of umbrellas and chairs and is a local favorite!

In addition to these events and activities, Galveston is also home to many historical and cultural attractions. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a must-visit, with its roller coasters, carnival games, and food stalls. Moody Mansion is, a stunning Victorian mansion built in the late 1800s,and is another popular attraction that showcases the city's rich history.

With its beautiful beaches, delicious food and wine, and exciting events and activities, Galveston is a great place to visit during the spring.

Summer Events

Galveston is a popular summer destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and fun. The island city offers a variety of summer events that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages.

One of the most popular events during summer is the Galveston Island Beach Band Concert Series. The free concerts take place every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the Sealy Gazebo in Stewart Beach Park. The series features a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and blues to country and rock, and provides a lively atmosphere for enjoying the sunset and cooling off with a cold drink.

Another must-see event during summer is the Galveston Air, Car and Boat Show. Day and night air shows from many planes including P-63, King Cobra, and DH-115 will leave you breathless. This three-day event takes place at Moody Gardens, a popular attraction that features an aquarium, rainforest exhibit, and water park.

For those who enjoy seafood, the annual Wild Game Cook-Off is in early Summer and the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival is towards the end of the season. These festival features fresh BBQ or Gulf shrimp, live music, and a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can participate in a 5K run, a gumbo cook-off, and a shrimp peeling contest. The festival also includes a kids' area with face painting, balloon artists, and carnival rides.

The AIA Sandcastle Competition is an annual event held on East Beach in Galveston. The competition brings together architects, engineers, and designers from all over the state to create elaborate sand sculptures and compete for prizes. In addition to the sandcastle competition, the event also features live music, food and drink vendors, and other fun activities for the whole family. Spectators can watch the teams work on their sculptures throughout the day, and the final judging takes place in the afternoon.

Juneteenth Celebrations in Galveston are a powerful reminder of the city's history and the resilience of the African American community. It's a time to honor the struggle for freedom and equality and to celebrate the cultural heritage of the city. The festivities often begin with a parade through the city, featuring music, dancing, and colorful costumes. One of the most popular events during Juneteenth is the Emancipation Proclamation reading, which takes place on the steps of the Galveston County Courthouse. This event commemorates the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19th, 1865, which declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were free.

For those looking for more educational experience, the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council offers a variety of guided tours and excursions throughout the summer months. Visitors can take a dolphin watching tour, go on a birding adventure, or take a kayaking trip through the island's wetlands.

No matter what your interests are, Galveston offers plenty of summer events and activities to keep you entertained. From beach fun and seafood festivals to outdoor adventures and educational tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Fall Events

Galveston offers a variety of fall events that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From festivals celebrating food and culture to outdoor adventures and Halloween thrills, Galveston has something for everyone.

One of the most popular fall events in Galveston is the annual Island Oktoberfest. The festival takes place at the First Lutheran Church and features traditional German food, beer, and live music. Visitors can also participate in games and activities, such as a stein-holding contest and a dachshund dash.

Another exciting event during the fall is the Galveston Island Greek Festival. The festival celebrates Greek culture and features live music, traditional dancing, and delicious food, such as gyros, baklava, and spanakopita. Visitors can also enjoy Greek wine and beer, as well as games and activities for children.

The Lonestar Biker Rally is an annual event held in Galveston, Texas that celebrates all things motorcycles. The rally is held in November and attracts bikers from all over the country who come to enjoy the beautiful weather and scenic rides along the Gulf Coast. The rally features a variety of events and activities, including live music performances, bike shows, and vendor exhibits. Visitors can browse through a variety of products and services offered by vendors, including motorcycle parts, accessories, clothing, and other gear.

For those seeking thrills and chills during the Halloween season, Galveston offers a variety of haunted attractions, such as the Haunted Mayfield Manor and the Ghosts and Legends of the Gulf Coast Tour. Visitors can also participate in the annual Galveston Island Halloween Carnival and Parade, which features costume contests, games, and live music.

Finally, for a more outdoor Fall adventure, Galveston offers a variety of fishing charters and boat tours through Baywatch and Galveston Party Boats. Visitors can experience the thrill of deep sea fishing or take a relaxing sunset cruise around the island.

Winter Events

Galveston, Texas may be known for its warm weather and sunny beaches, but the island city also offers a variety of winter events and activities that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. From festive lights to holiday markets and parades, Galveston has plenty to offer visitors during the winter season.

One of the most popular winter events in Galveston is the Festival of Lights. The festival takes place at Moody Gardens and features over 2 million lights and displays throughout the park. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, such as an ice skating rink, a train ride, and a holiday movie showing in the 3D theater. There is also a holiday market selling handmade gifts and crafts.

Another popular event during the winter season is the Dickens on the Strand. The festival takes place in the historic Strand district and encourages everyone to dress up as costumed characters There are also vendors selling unique gifts, live music, and entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy holiday treats, such as hot cocoa and roasted chestnuts, and participate in a variety of activities, such as carriage rides and ice sculpting.

For those who love holiday parades, the annual Galveston Holiday Parade is a must-attend event. The parade takes place in downtown Galveston and features festive floats, marching bands, and holiday characters. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drinks from local vendors and restaurants.

If you're looking for a magical and unforgettable experience, the Polar Express at the Railroad Museum is just the ticket. This holiday-themed train ride is based on the popular children's book and movie, and takes passengers on a journey to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus himself. As the train pulls out of the station, you'll hear the familiar sound of the train whistle and the clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks. During the journey, passengers are treated to a reading of the Polar Express story and served hot chocolate and cookies, just like in the book. The train also makes a stop at the "North Pole," where passengers can see Santa Claus and his elves in their workshop, and receive a special gift from Santa himself.

Galveston Restaurant Week is an annual event that is typically in the month of January. The event offers visitors and locals alike the chance to try out some of the best cuisine that Galveston has to offer at a discounted price. During Galveston Restaurant Week, participating restaurants offer prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner. In addition to the delicious food, Galveston Restaurant Week also benefits a good cause. A portion of the proceeds from the event is donated to the Galveston County Food Bank, helping to support those in need in the local community.

If you're looking for a festive and vibrant way to celebrate, then look no further than Mardi Gras Galveston! This annual event is one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations in the country. Mardi Gras Galveston is a two-week-long celebration filled with parades, parties, and live music. Throughout the two weeks, the streets of Galveston are transformed into a colorful and festive scene, with hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world flocking to the island to join in the fun. The parades are the highlight of the celebration, with colorful floats, elaborate costumes, and talented marching bands. But this event isn't just about the parades and parties. It also features a wide range of family-friendly activities, including a pet parade, a children's parade, and a carnival with rides and games.