Break out the top hats and petticoats: Dickens on The Strand returns to Galveston for its 53rd annual celebration from December 4–6, 2026. Presented by Galveston Historical Foundation, the holiday tradition transforms the island’s historic streets into a festive scene inspired by 19th-century London.
With parades, entertainment across four stages and vendors dressed for the occasion, the festival offers a distinctly Victorian way to welcome the Christmas season. Here’s what to expect this year.
A Victorian Holiday On The Strand
The festival brings Dickens’ world to life through roaming characters, bustling street stalls and rolling carts filled with seasonal treats and gifts. Visitors can browse Victorian-inspired clothing, jewelry, crafts and holiday decorations while enjoying performances throughout the grounds.
This year’s announced attractions also include Tiny Tim’s Play Land and the Shopkeeper Skills Village, alongside the festival’s parades and live entertainment.
Festive Shopping And Seasonal Treats
Come ready to browse—and snack. Costumed vendors will sell holiday food and drinks alongside handcrafted goods and stocking stuffers, making the marketplace as much a part of the experience as the entertainment.
From festive decorations to Victorian-inspired accessories, the stalls offer plenty of opportunities to take a little of the old-world atmosphere home.
Special Events Around Galveston
Beyond the main festival, separately ticketed gatherings bring the celebrations to some of Galveston’s historic venues. The announced 2026 lineup includes:
- JuBellaté Ringers Handbells at the 1859 St. Joseph’s Church on Friday, December 4, with tickets listed at $25.
- The Smoking Bishop’s Soiree at the 1892 Bishop’s Palace on December 4, from 6:30–8:30 p.m., priced at $100.
- Elevenses on the Pier at Galveston Historic Seaport on Saturday, December 5, at 10 a.m., priced at $60.
- Mrs. Tickit’s English Breakfast at the 1859 Ashton Villa on December 5 and 6, at 10:30 a.m., priced at $75.
- Miss Havisham’s Afternoon Tea at the 1892 Bishop’s Palace on December 5 and 6, at 3 p.m., priced at $50.
- Saint Arnold’s Walking Tours at multiple times throughout the weekend, priced at $40.
The Artful Dodger’s After Dark also returns to Galveston Historic Seaport on Saturday, December 5, at 7 p.m. Tickets for the evening event are listed at $50 per person.
Festival Dates And Hours
The weekend begins with Fezziwig’s Friday, a free evening celebration before the paid festival days on Saturday and Sunday. The 2026 schedule is:
- Friday, December 4: 5–9 p.m.; free admission.
- Saturday, December 5: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; paid admission.
- Sunday, December 6: noon–6 p.m.; paid admission.
Tickets And Costume Discounts
General admission is currently listed at $20 for adults, $13 for children ages 7–12, and free for children 6 and under. The organizer says general admission prices increase by $5 on November 20, so booking early can save a few dollars.
Planning to dress the part? Guests in Victorian costume receive half-price admission at the gate. The costume discount applies to gate purchases only. Two-day VIP admission is also available, listed at $100 for adults and $40 for children ages 7–12.
The festival runs rain or shine, and tickets are non-refundable. Whether you visit for the free Friday kickoff or spend the weekend exploring the festivities, expect a holiday celebration with a decidedly old-world twist.
