Galveston, Texas, is a prized beach destination attracting thousands of tourists every year. You can enjoy fun in the sun and sand in Galveston all summer long. The 4th of July is an especially great time to spend time in this captivating coastal city on Galveston Island. In fact, Galveston is one of the best places in the entire country to spend the 4th of July.
Are you planning a Galveston visit and want to be there on the 4th of July? There’s plenty to see and do in the city and surrounding area. Let’s get started on our exploration of 4th of July fun and excitement in Galveston.
Get the Patriot Pass
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Get the Galveston Patriot Pass and enjoy three of Galveston’s great parks: Galveston’s legendary Pleasure Pier and the Kemah Boardwalk, as well as the Downtown Aquarium Houston. You get to spend time in all these parks for the whole 4th of July weekend (from July 2 to July 4). Enjoy rides in all parks with your Patriot Pass.
The Kemah Boardwalk is the perfect family outing. It has midway games, amusement rides, waterfront restaurants, and lots of shopping for you to enjoy. Similarly, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers plenty of rides and amusements. If you’re going to be in Galveston with the kids, this is the perfect place to bring them.
4th of July Parade & Fireworks in Galveston
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The Marine Corps League sponsors Galveston’s Independence Day Parade & Fireworks. Head to Seawall Blvd, getting there by 7 pm when the parade begins. The parade starts on this street and travels to the east, reaching 27th street. After the parade is finished, there will be spectacular fireworks. These are held at 37th and Seawall.
The whole parade and fireworks event runs from 7 pm to 10 pm. Enjoy it for free with family and friends. Galveston is famous for its 4th of July fireworks, and locals and visitors alike were disappointed when they had to be canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic last year. Organizers plan to bring them back for 2021. Galveston’s Independence Day fireworks display is a sight to behold, so don’t miss out.
Jamaica Beach Volunteer Fire Department Independence Day Dinner & Dance
While this event happens on July 6th, it’s an important part of Independence Day celebrations in Galveston. This dinner has been held for more than four decades, and it’s fun for the entire family. There are kids activities, as well as a BBQ and live music. The dinner and dance runs the entire evening of the 6th.
You’ll definitely want to leave early if you have little ones with you. The events later in the evening are for adults, and alcohol will be served. Make sure to wear your dancing shoes!
Trading Post at The Bryan Museum
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While this isn’t a specifically Independence Day event, the Trading Post at The Bryan Museum is a great place to visit on 4th of July. The Bryan Museum is where you’ll learn about the fascinating history of Galveston. The museum’s Trading Post takes place on the first Sunday of each and every month, and the July Trading Post will fall on July 4th this year.
This is when locals bring in intriguing items they want to sell. You can find jewelry, artwork, antiques, art, and more. Spending time wandering around the stalls at the Trading Post is a great way to get connected to Galveston’s local flavor.
KOA Campgrounds July 4th Weekend Events
The KOA campgrounds in Galveston hold fun family-oriented July 4th weekend events that you should check out. The event starts on July 3rd and lasts all through July 4th. To take part, camp on the KOA campgrounds and decorate your campsite. There’s a contest to choose the best decorated site. There’s also a parade and live music.
Check out the weekend schedule, which includes live music by the pool with Donald James, as well as an “All Wheels Parade.” Decorate your campsite on July 4th, after spending some time at the Lazy River Pavillion.
Visit Galveston State Park
There’s no better day than the 4th of July to visit Galveston State Park. This impressive state park is an expanse of at least 2,000 acres. It lets you explore the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast ecosystem. There are tours available, including kayaking expeditions. Bring a picnic and make your visit to Galveston State Park a 4th of July family adventure.
Have the Independence Day of a Lifetime in Galveston
Galveston is a popular 4th of July destination for a reason. There’s a wide array of things to do, and you’ll always have fun in the sun in Galveston.