2202 Ave. K
Galveston, TX
77551
Known for its exceptional acoustics, the breathtaking 1859 St. Joseph’s Church opens its doors for three special handbell concerts. These Dickens on The Strand traditions sell out annually, be sure to get your reservations in advance as seating is limited in this intimate setting. St. Joseph’s Church is the oldest German Catholic Church in Texas and the oldest wooden church building in Galveston and was built by German immigrants in 1859. Now de-sanctified and managed by Galveston Historical Foundation, the gothic revival church is distinguished by its elaborately detailed coffered wooden ceiling, delicately painted wooden sanctuary, original pews, and hand-carved altars. GHF preserves the building as a museum and makes it available as an event venue. Tickets are non-refundable.
For 46 years, Galveston Historical Foundation’s (GHF) Dickens on The Strand festival has highlighted downtown Galveston’s Victorian-era architecture while providing a one-of-a-kind holiday destination filled with the sights and sounds of Charles Dickens’ work.
This year’s event continues that tradition with new entertainers and events, returning favorites, and family-friendly programming.
This annual festival begins Friday, December 6th with free admission to Fezziwig’s Beer Hall from 5-9pm, and continues with ticketed entry Saturday, December 7th from 10am-9pm, and Sunday, December 8th from 12 noon-6pm.
Tickets purchased before December 2nd are $13 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12.
Tickets purchased at the gate are $15 for adults and $9 for youth. Discounted tickets for GHF members are available for $10 in advance or $12 at the gate.
Tickets are available online at dickensonthestrand.org, by calling (409)765-7834 or at all area Randall’s stores beginning mid-November. Attendees in Victorian costumes receive $8 entry.
“There is something about the spirit of Dickens on The Strand that sets the pace for a great holiday season,” states GHF Executive Director Dwayne Jones. “It is always fun and enlivening to partake of the festivities and recall the great literary work of Charles Dickens. Come join the street entertainment, food and craft vendors, and traditional drink of old London.”
The annual holiday street festival, based on 19th-century Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on multiple stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers, and a host of other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items.
Three descendants of Charles Dickens will grace the festival as GHF welcomes Oliver ‘Ollie’ Dickens, a great-great-great-grandson; Lucinda Dickens Hawksley, a great-great-great-granddaughter; and Jane Dickens Monk, a great-great-granddaughter. All descendants will be at numerous events throughout the weekend.
