Blast into July with 4th of July celebrations, plus great ways to beat the heat in Galveston in July 2023.
We’ve pulled together our favorite events happening on Galveston Island this July, but you can always find more on the 365 Houston calendar and on the Visit Galveston website.
And of course, with big beaches, deep history, charming shopping, great dining, the big outdoors and more, there’s always plenty do on Galveston every day of the year—even if there’s not a special event that catches your fancy. Explore the 10 reasons to visit Galveston in 2023.
The Top 10 Events & Things to Do on Galveston Island in July 2023
- Ways to Beat the Heat in Galveston | Daily – Get in the water at attractions like Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark, or get inside the cool air while having fun at museums and other fun destinations.
- 4th of July Parade, Fireworks Over the Gulf & More Events | Independence Day, Tuesday, July 4 | Many FREE – With options throughout the day and preceding weekend, be sure to line up for the holiday’s main event—a 4th of July seaside parade Tuesday evening, followed by a spectacular fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico. Times vary.
- Beats on the Beach & Fireworks at Moody Gardens | Every Saturday in July – The weekly live music and fireworks event continues, complete with sunset and twilight DJ music, dancing, drinks, food, and more. Moody Gardens admission varies by date; fireworks can be seen for free from around the island. 6pm to 10pm; fireworks at 9:15pm.
- Summer Concert Series at Menard Park | Every Thursday in July | FREE – Kick off your weekend with a free evening concert through the end of the month, featuring local favorites headlining each week—including The Wheel Workers on Thursday, July 6, El Lago on July 13, The Zydeco Dots on July 20, and Dem Roots Music on July 27. 6pm to 9pm weekly.
- GCVA Beach Volleyball Tournament at East Beach | Saturday, July 8 | FREE to Watch – The Gulf Coast Volleyball Association hosts the July installment of summer V-ball tourneys in June, offering the chance to watch lively games at all skill levels throughout the day. 9am to 5pm both dates.
- Galveston Family Beach Challenge at Stewart Beach | Sunday, July 9 – Families and friends work through 14 stations, competing against other participants for a chance to win up to $2,000 in prizes. Stations are designed for ages 8 and up. Registration required. 10am.
- ’80s Glow Party at The Albatross | Thursday, July 13 – Dress in neon, let your hair go wild, and dance to all ’80s music spun by DJ El Rey. 9pm to 2am.
- Midsummer Yuletide Cruise at Galveston Yacht Marina | Thursday, July 13 & Thursday, July 20 – Get in some cheeky Christmas in July-inspired fun on a sunset cruise on a catamaran while indulging in holiday bites and desserts, beer, wine and nonalcoholic drinks. Yuletide-inspired attire is welcome. $200; $350 for 2. 6:30pm to 9:30pm both dates.
- 10th Annual Ohana Surf Dog Competition | Saturday, July 15 | FREE to Watch – Head to the beach where 27th Street meets Seawall to spy pups on surfboards in this annual fundraiser for Galveston Island Humane Society. 8am to noon.
- Galveston ArtWalk in Downtown Galveston | Saturday, July 15 | FREE – Take to the charming streets of Downtown Galveston as galleries, artist studios, and local businesses keep their doors open late, many with entertainment or activities to activate these art spaces. 6pm to 9pm.
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