Illustration of a light display scene (Holiday in The Gardens)
Christmas Lights

Holiday in The Gardens

Experience the magic of Holiday in The Gardens at Moody Gardens, featuring the enchanting ICE LAND: Caribbean Christmas ice sculpture exhibit and a dazzling mile-long Holiday Lights Trail with over two million lights. Enjoy festive entertainment like the live holiday show 'A Very Electric Christmas', ice skating, Arctic Slide, train rides, and holiday films. Special dining options and hotel packages are also available.

What to Expect

Caribbean Christmas themed ice sculptures and a million-light trail.

Event Details

Duration

Evening event, specific attraction durations vary

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • Lightwire Theater

Organizer

Moody Gardens, Inc.

Food & Drink

Concessions, hot chocolate, S'mores, festival buffet, Christmas Eve/Day brunch, New Year's Eve dinner available.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, magical, family-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (most attractions are indoors or covered)

Location

Moody Gardens
1 Hope Boulevard
Galveston, TX
77554

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Accessibility: Mobility assistance is available for the Holiday Lights Trail with wheelchair or courtesy cart rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Dress warmly for ICE LAND, as the tent is kept at 9 degrees Fahrenheit, even though parkas are provided.
  • Consider purchasing a Holiday Pass for access to multiple attractions like Ice Land, Holiday Lights, and the Holiday Show.
  • Check the calendar for 'Value Days' which may offer lower ticket prices and adjust closing times for the Holiday Lights Trail.
  • Book hotel packages to bundle accommodations with attraction passes for a convenient and immersive holiday experience.
  • Arrive after 4 PM for the Holiday Pass, as the Holiday Lights Trail typically opens around dusk (6 PM).

Special Events & Promotions

  • 2 for 1 theme nights through the season for Holiday Lights Trail
  • Special Holiday Hotel Packages
  • New Year's Eve Palooza packages
  • Discounted group admission for 15 or more

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours for Holiday in The Gardens?

The Holiday Lights Trail is open daily starting at 6 PM, closing at 10 PM on regular days and 9 PM on value days. Specific hours for other attractions may vary; check the daily attraction hours.

Are there any special events for New Year's Eve?

Yes, they offer a New Year's Eve Palooza Family Celebration with a Family Fun Zone, beach ball countdown, and early fireworks. This is available as a hotel package.

Can I bring my pet to Holiday in The Gardens?

No, pets are not allowed at Moody Gardens. Service animals are typically permitted.

What is included with the Holiday Pass?

The Holiday Pass typically includes admission to Ice Land, the Holiday Lights Trail, the Aquarium Pyramid, one 3D Film, one 4D Film, four Arctic Slide rides, one Kiddie Train ride, and admission to the Ice Skating Rink (rentals extra).

Is there food and drink available at the event?

Yes, concessions, hot chocolate, S'mores, and a festival buffet are available. Special holiday dining options, including Christmas Eve/Day brunch and New Year's Eve dinner, are also offered.

Tags

holiday light displaysice skatingfamily friendlytrain ridesinteractive displaysSanta visitsfestive foodholiday traditionNew Years Eveseasonal activities

More Christmas Events Near Galveston

More Christmas Events near Galveston

Open the map around Galveston →

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team