What's Happening in Galveston? 2026 Events

Get ready for an action-packed calendar of events in the upcoming months! From Mardi Gras to New Years and everything in between, there's something for everyone to look forward to.  Read on to find out about Galveston's upcoming events!

❄️ WINTER 2026

We have the 3rd largest Mardi Gras in the country. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, lively parades, and festive atmosphere that Mardi Gras is known for.

As we move towards the middle of February, love is in the air with Valentine's Day. Whether you are planning a romantic date or celebrating with friends and family, this day is all about

spreading love and appreciation.

Dates and other unmissable happenings below!

• Yaga’s Chili Quest, Beers & Cheers — January 16-17, 2026

• Galveston Restaurant Week — January 12-30, 2026

• Mardi Gras! Galveston — February 6–17, 2026

• Valentines Day – February 14, 2026

🌸 SPRING 2026

Next up on the calendar is Spring Break! It's time to let loose and enjoy some well-deserved time off from school or work. Whether you're hitting the beach or exploring new attractions, Spring Break is all about creating unforgettable memories.

If you have ever wanted to see inside some of the lovely, Galveston historic homes, be sure to check out the Galveston Historic Homes Tour. You have two weekends to explore our island treasures.

For all the cheerleaders out there, mark your calendars for United Cheer-United Nationals. This event brings together talented cheer teams from across the country to compete for national recognition.

Fitness enthusiasts will be thrilled about Ironman 70.3. Prepare yourself for an exciting race that combines swimming, cycling, and running - a true test of endurance and determination.

Spectators are welcome.

FeatherFest, is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Join us for a celebration of all things feathery, with birdwatching tours, educational workshops, and

interactive exhibits that will leave you in awe.

Check out the events in Spring below!

• Ray Wiley Hubbard at The Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe — March 19-20, 2026

• United Cheer Leader National Championship — March 21–22, 2026

• Ironman — March 29, 2026

• La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival — Spring 2026 (dates TBD)

• Galveston Steampunk Festival — April 10-12, 2026

• Mustang Week Texas — April 14-18, 2026

• FeatherFest — Birding & Nature Photo Festival — April 16-19, 2026

• The Grand Kids Festival — April 25, 2026

• RailFest: Model Train Rally — April 25-26, 2026

• Flamingo Parade and Pub Crawl — April (dates TBD)

• Galveston Historic Homes Tour — May 2–3 & 9–10, 2026

• Yaga’s Wild Game & BBQ Cook Off — May 8-9, 2026

• Memorial Day — May 25, 2026

☀️ SUMMER 2026

Kick off your summer with a bang on July 4th as we celebrate Independence Day. Then, gear up for a long weekend of relaxation and fun during Labor Day Weekend.

Whoop whoop for dates below!

• Juneteenth Celebrations — June 19, 2026

• Galveston Island Revue Weekend, also Classic Cars and Live Music — June 2026 (dates TBD)

• 4th of July Events — July 4, 2026

• Galveston Island Wine Festival — August 2026 (around Labor Day Weekend)

• Labor Day— Sep 7, 2026

Have a fun evening aboard the Elissa with music and cocktails as part of the Island Review Weekend!

🍁 FALL 2026

Mark your calendars for the AIA Sandcastle Competition, where you can witness incredible

sand sculptures come to life. And if you're a fan of seafood and Cajun flavors, don't miss out on the Shrimp & Gumbo Festival.

ARToberFEST in October is the island’s premier juried art festival featuring works of over 120

US artists and is presented by The Grand 1894 Opera House. It’s artful, fascinating and activity oriented.

You don’t want these dates out of our calendar!

• Galveston Sandcastle Festival — Fall 2026 (usually September)

• Galveston Island Shrimp & Gumbo Festival — Fall 2026 (dates TBD)

• ARToberFEST — October 2026 (dates TBD)

• Galveston Island Oktoberfest — October 2026 (dates TBD)

• Haunted Happenings — October 2026 (dates TBD)

❄️ WINTER 2026

Rev up your engines for the thrilling Lone Star Rally. This motorcycle extravaganza is a must-see event for all bike enthusiasts.

As we approach the end of the year, gather your loved ones together and give thanks during

Thanksgiving. To help you get into the holiday spirit, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Dickens On The Strand in December.

From December 22nd to January 7th, embark on a blissful Christmas Break. Whether you

choose to spend it cozied up with loved ones or exploring the coastline, make this holiday

season one to remember.

You might be in trouble if these dates are skipped!

• Lone Star Rally — November 5-8, 2026

• Dickens on the Strand — December 3-6, 2026

• Holiday in the Gardens — December 2026- January 2027

• Christmas — December 25, 2026

And finally, let's bid farewell to this year with a bang! On December 31st, join us for an

unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration. Raise a glass as we count down together towards

new beginnings and endless possibilities.

So, get your calendars ready and start counting down the days to these incredible events.

There's something for everyone to enjoy as we embrace the upcoming months filled with

celebration, excitement, and plenty of fun!

Safe travels!

Dec 28, 2025