Dickens on the Strand

Dickens on The Strand, hosted by the Galveston Historical Foundation, returns to Galveston's historic downtown Dec. 6-8, transforming the island into the Victorian London of Charles Dickens. The annual holiday street festival features parades, non-stop entertainment on multiple stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers, and other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares, offering holiday food and drink, as well as Victorian-inspired and modern crafts, clothing, jewelry and more. Festival goers are encouraged to don their own costumes inspired by the era to receive a discount. 

Each year, Dickens on The Strand welcomes representatives from the Charles Dickens family. This year's event features three Dickens descendants: Oliver “Ollie” Dickens, his great-great-great-grandson, Polly Olivia Boyd, his great-great-great-granddaughter and Harry Whinne, his great-great-great-grandson.

General Festival Information 

Friday, Dec. 6
Hours: 5-9 p.m.
Admission: Free
On Friday night, guests are invited to kick off the festival at Fezziwig’s Beer Hall, located on 22nd St. between Strand Street and Ship Mechanic’s Row. Here, amid a jovial atmosphere, guests will enjoy live entertainment, plus hearty beers and plenty of toasting.

Saturday, Dec. 7
Hours: 10 a.m.– 9 p.m.
Entertainers and vendors line the Strand Historic District on Saturday. Hear choirs and see circus performances throughout the day. The highly anticipated Queen’s Parade will roll through downtown at 2 p.m., followed by the Dickens Costume Contest at 3:30 p.m. The Pickwick’s Lanternlight Parade will illuminate the area at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 8
Hours: 12-6 p.m.
Entertainment begins at noon and The Queen’s Parade will roll through downtown at 2 p.m. At 4 p.m., the Dickens Dash, a half-mile foot race will take place followed by the highly anticipated Victorian Bed Races, with teams competing in a mad dash to be the first to get their “sleeping” bedfellow across the finish line, at 4:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for youth, with discounted rates for GHF members. Attendees in Victorian costumes receive 50% off entry. Tickets can be purchased online at www.galvestonhistory.org.

 
Special Events, new in 2024:

Cabaret of Curiosities
Dec. 7, 7-9 p.m.
2228 The Strand Galveston, TX 77550
Step back in time for an evening of mystery, elegance, and revelry, where the allure of the Victorian era meets the spirited world of cabaret. The Cabaret of Curiosities is a lively, festive cabaret featuring a talented ensemble of performers who will engage the audience with holiday songs and lighthearted performances to spread Christmas cheer. Please note: This is a 21+ event. Each $50 ticket comes with a complimentary drink. Additional drinks are available for purchase. 
 
The Strand Murders of 1888–A Dickens Scavenger Hunt
Dec. 7, 1-7:30 p.m. and Dec. 8, 2-6 p.m. 
Welcome to the world of "Jack the Ripper-Dickens on the Strand," a thrilling immersive murder mystery game set against the backdrop of a Gothic Victorian-era festival. The story takes place in Galveston, Texas, during a week-long Christmas celebration filled with bustling crowds, festive lights, and the hidden shadows of a dark secret. The experience is free with paid festival admission. 
 
Edgar's Alley
Dec. 7-8, During festival hours
Tucked away in the alley behind Fezziwig's Beer Hall, Edgar's Alley features unique pop-ups, poets, mystics and more.