Texas does not exactly do snow. What it does do is go completely over the top with lights, and Moody Gardens in Galveston is one of the best examples on the coast.
Every year, the island attraction with the famous pyramids turns into a holiday wonderland called Holiday in the Gardens, with a lights trail, a massive ice sculpture exhibit, skating, slides, shows, and Santa. Here is everything you need to plan your visit in 2026.
The Basics
- Dates: November 21, 2026, through January 2, 2027
- Holiday Lights hours: Nightly from 6 to 10 p.m.
- Where: Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd., Galveston
- Tickets: Sold by attraction or as a Holiday Pass. Check the Moody Gardens website for current prices and daily attraction hours.
What to See and Do
The Holiday Lights Trail
The main event is a mile-long walking trail glowing with more than 2 million lights. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a jacket for the breeze off the bay, and plan for at least an hour so you are not rushing the good parts.
A tunnel of lights along the Holiday Lights Trail. Photo courtesy of Moody Gardens
ICE LAND: Caribbean Christmas
This year’s ice exhibit has a Caribbean Christmas theme, carved from more than 2 million pounds of ice. It is kept very cold inside, so layers are your friend. Do not miss the oil rig ice slide, a fun nod to the Texas Gulf Coast.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Yes, you can ice skate on Galveston Island. The outdoor rink sits along the lights, and evening skating is included with a Holiday Lights ticket.
The Arctic Slide
A big holiday slide that kids will want to ride over and over. The Holiday Pass includes four rides.
Kids racing down the Arctic Slide. Photo courtesy of Moody Gardens
Holiday 4D Films
Warm up inside with holiday 4D films, including Scrooge 4D and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D.
A Very Electric Christmas
A live holiday show. Each show ticket includes Holiday Lights admission, which makes it a smart combo.
The Kiddie Train
Little ones can ride a kiddie train through part of the lights.
Breakfast With Santa
Breakfast with Santa takes place on December 12, 13, and 19 through 23. These dates tend to sell out, so book early.
The Nutcracker Market
Holiday shopping on November 27 and 28, the weekend after Thanksgiving. Admission is $5, and Moody Gardens Hotel guests get in free.
Tips for Visiting
- Go on a weeknight: Weekends and the weeks around Christmas get busy.
- Buy tickets online: It saves time at the gate.
- Groups save: Groups of 15 or more get 10% off.
- Dress in layers: Coastal nights are breezy, and the ice exhibit is cold.
- Pair it with Dickens: Dickens on The Strand takes over downtown Galveston December 4 through 6, so you can do both in one weekend.
Where to Stay
Moody Gardens Hotel
The easiest option by far. You can walk to the lights, skip the parking, and get free admission to the Nutcracker Market. The hotel also offers holiday packages. Booking.com guests rate it 8.7.
Moody Gardens Hotel, a short walk from the lights. Photo courtesy of Moody Gardens
Book Moody Gardens Hotel on Expedia
Grand Galvez (the Historic Hotel Galvez)
The island’s historic grand hotel on Seawall Boulevard, a short drive from Moody Gardens. It is especially pretty when it is decked out for the holidays.
A suite at Grand Galvez on Seawall Boulevard. Photo courtesy of Grand Galvez
Rather Rent a Beach House?
Bring the whole family and spread out. Our list of Galveston’s coolest vacation rentals has homes with lagoon pools, private piers, and room for big groups.
See Galveston’s Coolest Vacation Rentals
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Holiday in the Gardens start in 2026?
Holiday in the Gardens runs November 21, 2026, through January 2, 2027.
What time do the lights turn on?
The Holiday Lights run nightly from 6 to 10 p.m.
Can you ice skate at Moody Gardens?
Yes. There is an outdoor skating rink, and evening skating is included with a Holiday Lights ticket.
How many lights are on the trail?
More than 2 million lights along a mile-long trail.
A Gulf Coast Christmas
No snow required. Between the lights, the ice, the skating, and the island breeze, Holiday in the Gardens is a Texas Christmas tradition worth the drive.
Keep Exploring Texas
- Galveston in the Off Season: Why Fall and Winter Might Be the Best Time to Go
- Galveston’s Coolest Vacation Rentals: Lagoon Pools, Private Piers, and Beach Houses Worth the Trip
- Where to Stay in Texas for Thanksgiving: Big Vacation Homes for the Whole Family
This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, A Texas Guide may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
