Tips for Planning Your November Visit for Galveston

One of the things you’ll love about Galveston Island is you can still get some sand between your toes even in November. Unlike up north, the weather is still comfortable. And, there’s still plenty of things to keep you entertained or, just relax and unwind. Here are some tips for planning your November visit for Galveston.

November Events to Add to Your Calendar

Shows at The Grand 1894 Opera House

The Grand 1894 Opera House is a “must” if you enjoy live performances. Plus, no seat is further than 70 feet from the stage so there’s nothing like it. Buy your tickets early for these November shows at The Grand:

• Saturday, Nov. 12, 8 p.m. – Asleep at the Wheel – 50th Anniversary Tour
• Saturday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. – Jaston Williams in Blood and Holly
• Friday, Nov. 26, 8 p.m. & Saturday, Nov. 27, 8 p.m., The Official Blues Brothers Revue

Lone Star Rally, November 4-7

Calling all weekend warriors. It’s that time of year again – it’s Lone Star Rally. During this long weekend, Galveston expects more than 400,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country. Make sure you book your vacation rental well in advance and check out our Lone Star Rally blog for recommendations.

Moody Gardens’ Holiday in the Gardens, November 20 – January 2

Picture walking through a mile-long path filled with more than two million lights and lighted holiday scenes. Plus, you’ll enjoy 3D holiday films, an arctic slide, train rides, nightly fireside s’mores, and Santa Claus. Moody Gardens’ Holiday in the Gardens is a family must during the holiday season.

Galveston Holiday Tree Lighting Events, November 26 and November 27

Grand Galvez, 2024 Seawall Blvd., is reviving its annual Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration on Friday, November 26 at 6 p.m. Holiday festivities include performances by the Galveston Ballet, the Galveston Symphony, and Santa. On Saturday, November 27, the Historic Downtown Galveston Partnership is hosting the City of Galveston Tree Lighting at Saengerfest Park, 23rd and Strand, at 6 p.m. so you’ll have another chance to see Santa and enjoy all your favorite holiday performances.

Galveston ArtWalk, November 27

Although ArtWalk is scheduled every six to eight weeks in Galveston’s historic downtown, Thanksgiving weekend is typically the biggest ArtWalk of the year. The Strand Historic District and Postoffice Street District are lit up with lights and decorations for the season which adds to the holiday spirit as you browse art galleries and shops during extended hours from 6 to 9 p.m.

Where to Shop and Where to Eat

Every trip to Galveston should include time for shopping. And, since it’s the season for sweets we’re including some other stops.

Here are some unique shops that you’ll love for November:

Hendley Market, 2010 Strand, features a huge selection of Nativity sets from all over the world. If you are a collector or just an admirer, make sure you add their shop to your stops.

Strand Brass and Christmas on The Strand, 2115 Strand, celebrates Christmas all year long and will give you ideas and the necessary holiday décor to add to your collection.

Patty Cakes, 704 14th Street, is a “go-to” for baked goods so you’ll want to make a stop to stock up on your favorite scones, cupcakes, cookies, and other treats. Insider Tip: They can design a custom cake for special occasions.

Sunflower Bakery and Cafe, 512 14th Street, is a hot spot for breakfast and lunch but don’t miss their enticing dessert display. You won’t want to leave without a treat for the road. The owner recommends the Dutch Apple Pie and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread for the season.  

ShyKatz Cafe and Bakery,, 1528 Avenue L, is another hidden gem on Galveston Island. Just a slice of one of their cakes can probably serve 2 or 3 people. Tip: If you provide a family recipe in advance, they’ll prepare it for you.

For more suggestions specifically for Thanksgiving, check out our blog, Thanksgiving on Galveston Island.

We hope you enjoy these tips for planning your November visit for Galveston. Remember, Ryson Vacation Rentals is ready to help you make the most of your vacation rental. The island is ideal for a weekend stay, weekly rental, or month-long getaway.

Ryson Vacation Rentals offers more than 250 properties across the island that provide plenty of reasons to visit Galveston this year. If you need help planning your visit, Gulf Coast Concierge is available to assist.

Book Your Galveston Vacation Now

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christine Hopkins is a proud BOI, meaning she was “Born on the Island.” She is the co-author of the newly released “100 Things to Do in Galveston Before You Die,” published by Reedy Press. Before the book, she wrote more than 300 blogs on Galveston offering travel tips on what to see and do. Over the years, she’s given hundreds of tours for visiting travel writers showcasing the sites on the island. Currently, she’s a Galveston guide for ToursByLocals.com.