Get the scoop on what's happening in Galveston!
Make the Most of Your June Trip to Galveston
It’s June and summer is in full swing. Come make the most of your June trip to Galveston. While the beach is more than likely on your agenda, there are plenty of things to enjoy around the island. If you’re wondering what to add to your trip as part of your vacation rental planning, here are our suggestions:
Free Sand Building Lessons
If you’re planning family time on the beach, you might as well be a pro at building a sandcastle. You and your family can participate in “Sandcastle Days” for a free sandcastle building lesson every Saturday in June. A professional sandcastle builder offers lessons at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. at East Beach, straight down from the East Beach Pavilion.
June 4 – ArtWalk
ArtWalk is one of Galveston’s most popular events held in Downtown Galveston. Art galleries, shops, and other businesses welcome visitors from 6 to 9 p.m. to browse art by local and regional artists. For locals, it’s like a community reunion.
June 4 – Movie Nite on The Strand featuring Dora and the Lost City of Gold
If you’d prefer to enjoy a movie under the stars with family, pack chairs and pick up dinner for Movie Nite on The Strand at Saengerfest Park, 23rd and Strand. “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” begins at 8 p.m.
Movies on the Beach
The Galveston Park Board of Trustees sponsors Movies on the Beach throughout the summer. Movies are scheduled on Saturdays and begin at 8:30 p.m. Parking at Stewart Beach, and East Beach is $15 per car and admission at Seawolf Park is $6.
June movies are scheduled as follows:
June 4 – Black Panther at Stewart Beach
June 11 – The Mosquito Coast at East Beach
June 16 – The Hunt for Red October at Seawolf Park
June 11 – Flamingo Fest Golf Cart Parade and Pub Crawl
Did you know there’s a National Pink Flamingo Day? The Historic Downtown Partnership hosts a Flamingo Fest Golf Cart Parade and Pub Crawl to celebrate. The partnership invites golf carts, scooters, and bicycles to join the parade. Register at Ha.Ba’s Clothing, 2213 Postoffice, at 10 a.m. The parade begins at noon. And, if you’re solely interested in the pub crawl, check in at Ha.Ba’s Clothing between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
June 11 – Music Nite on The Strand
If you’re in Galveston and looking for free, live music, here’s an option – Music Nite on The Strand is from 6 to 8 p.m. This month features Bubble Puppy playing psychedelic rock. Enjoy this free concert at Saengerfest Park, 23rd and Strand.
June 11 – 12 & June 18 – 20 – Juneteenth Freedom Tours
Galveston is the birthplace of Juneteenth. In commemoration of Juneteenth, “memory keepers” or tour guides are leading Freedom Walk tours offering visitors an immersive experience at the site of emancipation where Major General Gordon Graner read the historic General Order No. 3. Tours begin at the Juneteenth Legacy Project Headquarters, 2217 Strand. Tours are limited to 15 people. Tickets are $20 per person.
Tours are scheduled as follows:
Saturday, June 11 & June 18 at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 12 & June 19 at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Monday, June 20 at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
June 18 – Annual Juneteenth Proclamation Reading
For more than 40 years, local organizers have hosted an annual Juneteenth proclamation event on the grounds of Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway. This year’s event begins at 10 a.m.
June 18 – Juneteenth Parade and Picnic
Community leaders are hosting an annual parade celebrating the legacy of Juneteenth at 1 p.m. The parade begins at 26th and Avenue H and ends at 41st and Avenue H. The picnic is at Wright Cuney Park, 718 41st, immediately following the parade.
June 18 – Juneteenth Festival
This family friendly festival offers food vendors, a Black Artist Exhibition, “Making Moves” Youth Baseball Tourname, and live music by Pee Wee & the Too Laid Back Band, the Galveston Heritage Chorale, DJ Michael Lewis and emcee Dunbeezy, comedienne and radio host of KTSU 90.9. Historian Sam Collins is scheduled to speak on the history of Juneteenth. Activities are planned from 12 to 8 p.m. at McGuire Dent Recreational Center, 2222 28th Street.
June 20 – Juneteenth Jubilee
The Juneteenth Legacy Project and NIA Cultural Center are planning a Juneteenth Jubilee from 3 to 6 p.m. at 2100 Strand. You’re invited to celebrate the birthplace of Juneteenth with music, live performances, and historical reenactments on this national holiday. This event is free and open to the public.
June 26 – Galveston Symphony Orchestra Plays the Pops: Vienna Style Sommerfest
Calling all classic music lovers. Picture fun Strauss waltzes, polkas, and other favorites in the style of Sommerfest concerts. You’ll also hear a moving piece Galveston Survives, by Izola E. Colins in memory of the beloved Galveston African American composer, educator and author, in honor of Juneteenth. Galveston Symphony Orchestra is hosting their Sommerfest at the Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice. Purchase tickets through The Grand.
Where to Shop and Where to Eat
Here are some suggestions of what should be on your list.
Katie’s Seafood Market, 1902 Wharf Road
There’s nothing better than fresh caught seafood during a stay in Galveston. If you’re not in the mood for fishing, pick up your favorites at Katie’s. It’s a popular spot so go early.
Galveston’s Own Farmer’s Market, 28th and Market
Now that’s its summer, Galveston’s Own Farmer’s Market hours are 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Sunday. In addition to fresh produce, coffee, pastries, and other food items, you’ll often find fresh flowers, handmade soaps, etc.
Cruz Cortez Clothiers, 2227 Postoffice
Since June 19 is Father’s Day, we thought we highlight this popular shop for men. Cruz Clothiers is known for its Hawaiin shirts, Guyaveras, jackets, hats and more. The owner Cruz Cortez is always on hand to help.
Texas Haberdashery, 2125 Church, Suite B
Texas Haberdashery is focused on what they describe as the Lone Star Gentleman with clothing geared towards outdoorsmen who enjoy fishing, hunting and gold. Popular brands include Blue Quail Clothing, Duck Brand, Texas Standard, Howler Bros, and others.
We hope you enjoy these tips for your June trip to 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 can assist.