For one weekend every December, Galveston’s historic Strand turns into a Victorian holiday village, with costumes, parades and carolers on every corner. Here’s how to plan your visit to Dickens on The Strand 2026.
What Is Dickens on The Strand?
Now in its 53rd year, it’s Galveston’s biggest holiday festival. The streets around 2002 Strand fill with Victorian characters, shops and entertainment on four stages.
Don’t Miss
The Parades
Parades wind through the historic district all weekend.
Victorian Bed Races
Teams race decorated beds down the street. A crowd favorite.
Tiny Tim’s Play Land
Games and activities for younger kids.
Shopkeeper Skills Village
Costumed vendors and old-fashioned crafts.
Good to Know
Costumes are half the fun. Victorian dress has earned discounted admission in past years, so check this year’s ticket page.
Downtown fills up fast. Parking garages and paid street parking go quickly.
Pets, coolers, scooters, skateboards and skates aren’t allowed in the festival.
Where to Stay
Stay close to The Strand so you can walk in, skip the parking, and head home for a break.
Historic East End Bungalow
3 bedrooms · Sleeps 5
Tropical garden deck, walkable to The Strand district.
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Les Bon Temps
3 bedrooms · Sleeps 8
A classic historic Galveston home.
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Aloha Little Lafitte
3 bedrooms · Sleeps 8
Victorian home with a patio and grill.
View home →Book Dickens Weekend Early
It’s one of the busiest weekends of the year on the island.
See Galveston HomesEvent details from the Galveston Historical Foundation, September 2026. Check the official site for tickets and times.