Galveston is rolling out an expanded lineup of cultural events this summer, offering visitors budget-friendly alternatives to traditional beach vacations while showcasing the island’s growing arts and entertainment scene.
The coastal city, recently designated as a Texas Music Friendly City by the state of Texas, is amplifying its cultural footprint with new monthly events and unique festivities.
“We were recently named a Texas Music Friendly City by the state of Texas. So to that end, we have a lot of new fun summer concert series going on around the island,” says Caitlin Karns, Public Relations Manager for Visit Galveston.
Art on the Coast
The island’s artistic evolution includes an enhanced Art Walk program, which has transitioned from a bi-monthly event to a monthly celebration. “All the galleries open up, they have live music and you can walk around and enjoy the local art, local culture, local music,” Karns explains.
Historical Significance and Cultural Heritage
This summer’s programming also emphasizes Galveston’s rich historical legacy. “The Bryan Museum and the Galveston Historical Foundation are all doing new exhibits centered around Juneteenth. And then we also have the anniversary of the 1900 storm,” says Karns.
The exhibits will showcase not only the devastating impact of the 1900 storm, one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history, but also highlight “the building of the seawall, the resilience of the island, how Galveston continues to bounce back after storms and hurricanes and how it’s kind of become a fabric of our community,” according to Karns.
Maritime Adventures and Unique Entertainment
Adding to the diverse summer lineup, Galveston will host its first-ever pirate festival in August, bringing a new maritime-themed celebration to the historic port city.
Perhaps the most distinctive event of the season is the return of the Ohana Dog Surfing Competition in July. “It’s so cute. It’s the best serotonin boost you’ll ever get to just watch little dogs surfing on their surfboards by the beach with the pleasure pier in the background. It’s pretty iconic,” Karns shares. The 12th annual competition, scheduled for July 19, 2025, will take place at the beach near 28th Street and Seawall Boulevard.
Beyond the Beach
While Galveston’s beaches remain a draw for visitors, Karns emphasizes that the island offers much more than just shoreline attractions. “If you’re coming to Galveston for just the beach, you’re missing the point and you’re missing the plot. It’s one of the most historic cities in the country,” she states. “I’m here for the fresh seafood, the museums, the architecture, the music, the art scene, and just the welcoming vibe that Galveston has.”
These expanded cultural offerings represent Galveston’s evolution from a traditional beach destination to a multifaceted cultural hub, providing visitors with an enriched coastal experience that spans history, arts, and entertainment.
