Paint the town red, white, and blue for Independence Day with celebrations, museums, and outdoor fun on Galveston Island during the Fourth of July week, from Friday, June 28 through Sunday, July 7, 2019.
With the Fourth of July landing on a Thursday this year, it’s the perfect chance to point your sails towards Galveston for the long weekend of festivities, fun in the sun, and a trip through yesteryear on the history-rich island.
Whether you’re watching celebrations light up the night sky, spiking the competition in a beach volleyball tournament, or touring through historic eras that defined the region and nation, Galveston Island offers plenty to fill your holiday weekend.
Scroll down to see some of our favorites, and when you’re ready to go, click here to find the perfect accommodations on the island.
Fourth of July Favorites & Experiences on Galveston Islands
- Dazzling Displays and Dinners – If you’re spending the holiday weekend in Galveston, be sure not to miss the 180th Independence Day Parade and Fireworks taking place along Seawall Boulevard on Thursday night. Arrive early to check out the parade of floats, decorated military vehicles, and performers before the 9pm fireworks display. Further down the island on Saturday, July 6, the Jamaica Beach Volunteer Fire Department hosts their 43rd Annual Independence Day Dinner & Dance, complete with silent auction items, live music, kids activities, bbq, and booze.
- Sun, Sand, & Surf – Rise and shine early on Saturday, July 6 for GCVA’s Red, White, and Volleyball Tournament where teams compete for the beach volleyball crown, then stick around East Beach for a can of beer or two or make your way to the family-friendly, alcohol-free Stewart Beach. Further down Seawall Boulevard, spend an afternoon taking in amusement fun at the Historic Pleasure Pier, or enjoy a crisp, cool ale on the sprawling outdoor patio of Galveston Island Brewing Company.
- Exploring the Gulf Coast – If you’re on the hunt for something natural to fill your weekend, then the nearby Galveston State Park offers more than 2,000 acres of Gulf Coast barrier island ecosystem to explore with a special Saturday morning beach guide that will help you uncover coastal critters along the shoreline. Try for a more in-depth experience of nature by putting your paddle in the water for an Artist Boat Kayak Adventure that offers tours of the Coastal Heritage Preserve and East End Lagoon.
- Tour through History – Make time for a celebratory salute to the armed forces at Seawolf Park, where you’ll find the Galveston Naval Museum and tours of the World War II submarine and destroyer, the USS Cavalla and USS Stewart. Swing by the Galveston Railroad Museum to learn about how this steam-powered transport shaped the nation, and delve into the history of Texas and the American West at The Bryan Museum. Take an afternoon to see the age-old architecture of The Strand District with its abundance of shops and restaurants, hop aboard the historic decks of the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa, explore the grand ornateness of Victorian construction at the 1892 Bishop’s Palace, and take in the rich history of The Grand 1894 Opera House with a free tour of the renovated treasure. Cap your night off with a cocktail from the rooftop bar at The Tremont House or catch a free screening of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle at Movie Nite on The Strand at Saengerfest Park in Historic Downtown Galveston on Saturday, July 6.
When you’re ready to go and celebrate America on the island, click here to find the perfect accommodations for your fun, Fourth-filled stay.
See More & Save with Galveston Island Pass
Whether you’re on the island during Fourth of July or looking to visit at any other time throughout the year, consider taking advantage of Galveston Island Pass to explore Galveston’s charm, history, character, and fun, while saving 40% off admission to local attractions.
When you buy a Galveston Island Pass, you get to pick four or more participating attractions and save 40% off retail price. Passes are valid 30 days after purchase.
Participating Attractions include the 61st Street Fishing Pier, the American Undersea Warfare Center at SeaWolf Park, Bryan Museum, Moody Gardens Rainforest Pyramid, and more. Click here to see all participating attractions.
Click here to order a Galveston Island Pass or for more information. One pass per person.
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