Galveston Island is preparing to host the 51st annual Dickens on The Strand festival from December 6-8, 2024. This beloved event, presented by the Galveston Historical Foundation, transports attendees back to the Victorian era with costumed characters, lively entertainment, and the charm of Charles Dickens’s world.
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of 19th-century London as you stroll through the festively decorated streets, encounter historical figures, and enjoy a delightful array of performances and activities.
Whether you’re a Dickens aficionado or simply seeking a unique holiday experience, Dickens on The Strand promises a memorable weekend for all ages.
New Delights and Returning Favorites at Dickens on The Strand in Galveston 2024
Each year, Dickens on The Strand delights visitors with a mix of innovative experiences and time-honored traditions. This year is no exception, with exciting new offerings alongside returning favorites. Meet descendants of Charles Dickens himself, engage in a thrilling scavenger hunt, and discover hidden treasures in Edgar’s Alley. Of course, no trip to Dickens on The Strand would be complete without witnessing the whimsical Whisker Revue, the energetic bed races, and the vibrant daily parades.
Visiting Dickens Descendants: Meet three members of the Charles Dickens family – Oliver ‘Ollie’ Dickens, Polly Olivia Boyd, and Harry Whinney. They will host special events, participate in meet-and-greets, and add a unique historical dimension to the festival.
Cabaret of Curiosities: Enjoy an evening of Victorian-inspired cabaret with music, performances, and holiday cheer. (This is a 21+ event.)
The Strand Murders of 1888 – A Dickens Scavenger Hunt: Immerse yourself in a thrilling murder mystery game set against the backdrop of the festival.
Edgar’s Alley: Discover hidden gems and unique pop-up experiences in this intriguing alleyway.
Dickens on The Strand in Galveston – Festival Favorites
Dickens on The Strand wouldn’t be complete without its signature events that capture the essence of Victorian merriment. From the quirky Whimsical Whisker Revue, where participants proudly display their facial hair creations, to the Dickens Victorian Bed Races, a spectacle of speed and creativity, there’s something to entertain every guest. Don your finest Victorian attire for the costume contest, witness the lively parades that wind through the historic streets, and consider a VIP ticket for exclusive access to special programming and meet-and-greets.
Whimsical Whisker Revue: A fun-filled facial hair contest for the bearded and the dandy.
Dickens Victorian Bed Races: Cheer on teams as they race their elaborately decorated beds through the streets.
Victorian Costume Contest: Show off your finest Victorian attire.
Daily Parades: Enjoy vibrant parades through Galveston’s historic Strand Mechanic National Historic Landmark District.
Buckingham Palace VIP Area: Enjoy exclusive access to this special area with programming, meet-and-greets, and a commemorative medallion.
Special Events Around the Dickens on The Strand in Galveston Festival
Beyond the bustling festival grounds, Dickens on The Strand extends its reach to encompass unique events at various historical sites throughout Galveston. These special events offer a deeper dive into Victorian culture and history, from a champagne reception with Dickens’s descendants to a captivating handbell concert in a historic church. Indulge in an elegant soiree, embark on a historical walking tour with craft beer tastings, or set sail on a tall ship for an unforgettable evening. These curated experiences add an extra layer of charm and intrigue to your Dickens on The Strand adventure.
Dickens on The Strand in Galveston – Event Times and Ticket Information
When: Friday, December 6: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Fezziwig’s Friday – Free Admission) | Saturday, December 7: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Paid Admission) | Sunday, December 8: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Paid Admission)
Where: 2002 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550
Tickets: Early Bird Prices (Increase $5 on 11/22) | Adults: $20 | Youth (7-12): $13 | Children (5 & Under): Free | Members: $20
Group: $18 (adult) / $12 (youth) | VIP Tickets: $100 for adults, $40 for youth (includes access to the Buckingham Palace VIP area)
The Dickens Golden Ticket: $1,000 (grants access to all festival events and special perks)
Map: event map and FAQsCheck out the here!
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.dickensonthestrand.org or call 409-765-7834.
The 51st Annual Dickens on The Strand promises to be another spectacular celebration of history, culture, and holiday cheer. Join the festivities and become part of a tradition that has been bringing the Victorian era to life on Galveston Island for over half a century. As you revel in the merriment, you’ll also be contributing to the preservation and appreciation of Galveston’s unique heritage. Don’t miss this opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of Dickens on The Strand.
ABOUT GALVESTON HISTORICAL FOUNDATION
Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) was formed as the Galveston Historical Society in 1871 and merged with a new organization formed in 1954 as a non-profit entity devoted to historic preservation and history in Galveston County. Over the last sixty years, GHF has expanded its mission to encompass community redevelopment, historic preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, coastal resiliency, and stewardship of historic properties.
GHF embraces a broader vision of history and architecture that encompasses advancements in environmental and natural sciences and their intersection with historic buildings and coastal life and conceives of history as an engaging story of individual lives and experiences on Galveston Island from the 19th century to the present day.
For more information on Dickens on The Strand, Galveston Historical Foundation, or to purchase advance tickets, please visit www.galvestonhistory.org or call 409-765-7834. For more festival information, please contact Will Wright, Chief Creative Officer, at 409-765-3424 or
wi*********@ga**************.org
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Note: All images and information used in this article are credited to Galveston Historical Foundation.
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