Dickens on the Strand

Galveston Historical Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Evangeline Ann Loessin Whorton, who passed away on January 15.

Evangeline’s impact on Galveston is profound and enduring. As GHF’s Vice President of Programs from 1973–1982, she created and directed the first Dickens on the Strand in 1974 and launched the Historic Homes Tour in 1975. Her research informed countless Texas Historical Commission markers, GHF tour manuals, and more. Appointed by Governor Mark White, Evangeline served as a commissioner of the Texas Historical Commission from 1983–1989.

An award-winning preservationist and environmentalist, she received GHF’s Steel Oleander Award in 2004 and the Texas Festivals & Events Association’s Founders Award in 1987. In 1992, she founded Scenic Galveston, leading efforts to conserve and restore the Galveston Bay area and transform the I-45 corridor into a scenic gateway to the island.

We are proud to share that the 2026 Galveston Historic Homes Tour will be held in honor of Whorton’s numerous contributions.

From waistcoats to petticoats and chimney sweeps to Victorian streets, Saturday at Dickens on The Strand didn't disappoint, and we're not done yet! Today's festival runs from Noon to 6, and we've got the scene set for you.

Details, tickets, and more at https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand.

Today's Albert's Whisker Review is always a bearded highlight of the weekend. Take a look behind the scenes of its hairy history.

What does it take to win a high-stakes Texas beard contest? A serious sweepstakes that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Unlike Scrooge, we CAN afford to make idle people merry. The first night of Dickens on the Strand was jam-packed with frivolity, feast, and finery. From historic homes to downtown delights, it was an incredible start to our 52nd year. We're open today from 10-9 and tomorrow from noon to 6.

Get your details at https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand!

You've got one more day to get your Dickens on the Strand fit finished! From chimney sweeps to Victorian finery, being at the festival in costume makes you part of the event itself. There's no better way to enjoy all the fun this weekend, and we'll take 1/2 off your admission (gate purchase only - not online) for those in Dickens attire. Scroll through for some inspiration. We can't wait to see what you put together!

This one sells out every year, for the best of the season's reasons. The Smoking Bishop's Soiree, held at the spectacular 1892 Bishop's Palace, this Friday night party features specialty acts (inside and out), food and drink, music, a reading by Oliver Dickens, and more, all leading up to the festival's first arrival and introduction of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert! Head to https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand/tickets and make sure you have your name on the guest list for one of the island's most exciting evenings of the year.

We're going to focus on some of our favorite festival programs starting tomorrow. Today, however, we've got some special event updates. If you're looking to make your Dickens on the Strand weekend a little extra, don't wait to get your RSVP in. Here's a rundown on what's available and what's not.

- Jubilation Ringers Handbell Concerts: 5:30 p.m. (Sold Out), 7:00 p.m. (Low Ticket), 8:30 p.m. (available)
- Smoking Bishop's Soiree at the 1892 Bishop's Palace: Low Ticket (this one always sells out!)
- Elevenses on the Pier: Sold Out
- Mrs. Tickit's English Breakfast at the 1859 Ashton Villa: Saturday (Sold Out), Sunday (Low Ticket)
- Miss Havisham's Afternoon Teas: Sold Out
- The Artful Dodger's After Dark: Low Ticket

Head to https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand/tickets to secure your reservation!

Another day closer to this year's Dickens on The Strand, and the weather outlook is looking nothing short of picture-perfect! From Eric Berger: Space City Weather, we're happy to share that "The weekend still looks very fine. Expect highs in the mid-60s on Saturday, and perhaps 70 degrees on Sunday. Nights will be on the chilly side, likely in the upper 40s although it’s too early to be sure. The best part? You can expect mostly sunny skies for the most part. It will be a great weekend for holiday related activities."

We think that last sentence is one even Charles would be proud of. All the Dickens details at https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand.

It's a beloved start to the weekend for so many beautiful reasons. The Friday Jubilation Ringers Handbell Concerts, held at the 1859 St. Joseph's Church, always hit the right note and are among our most popular (and long-running) Dickens on the Strand special events.

Get your seats reserved now for one of our three Friday evening performances at https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand/tickets.