Kid’s Activities at Dickens on The Strand

“THERE IS NOTHING IN THE WORLD SO IRRESISTIBLY CONTAGIOUS AS LAUGHTER AND GOOD HUMOR.” – CHARLES DICKENS

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is one of the world’s most beloved stories for a reason. Its message of forgiveness, humanity, and acceptance has connected with adults and children alike for over 177 years. Dickens on The Strand, now in its 49th year, recreates the settings of Dickens’ work for guests to enjoy while walking through The Strand National Historic Landmark Districts Victorian-era architecture. It’s a one-of-a-kind location to enjoy a one-of-a-kind weekend on historic Galveston Island. Although there’s fun for all ages, Dickens has numerous events and attractions for visiting youth to enjoy.  Here are our top 5 kid’s activities at Dickens on The Strand. Be sure to tag us at #galvestonhistory with your favorite moments and highlights at the 49th Annual Dickens on The Strand!

1. SUBMIT A SHORT STORY AND WIN A RIDE IN THE PARADE!

Could you be the next Dickens? This year’s festival will give you the chance to ride in a carriage with Oliver Dickens if your story is the winning selection! Ollie will personally select two stories, one from a 7-9 age range and one from a 10-12 range, for the winner to accompany them as their special guest during a Dickens parade.

Stories are limited to 100 words and can be on one of three topics.

2. KID’S ONLY ENTERTAINMENT

Tiny Tim’s Playland, presented by Galveston Children’s Museum, is your spot for a weekend full of kid-friendly programming. Specialty acts, Tiny Tim’s Petting Zoo presented by Shriners Children’s Texas, Galveston Children’s Museum activities, and more await our young guests. Be sure to stop by Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 1:30 p.m. for a special question and answer/meet and greet with Her Royal Majesty Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens himself!

3. 1/2 OFF ADMISSION FOR THOSE IN COSTUME

There’s no better way to enjoy all kid’s activities at Dickens on The Strand that we have to offer than attending in costume. We even sweeten the deal by offering 1/2 price admission to those in their Dickens best. Everything from pageboys and chimney sweeps to Victorian finery and finesse are welcomed. Not sure what to wear? Head to our specially curated Pinterest board to get some ideas.

4. AN AUDIENCE WITH THE QUEEN AND CHARLES DICKENS

This year’s kid’s activities at Dickens on The Strand feature a full weekend of great, family-friendly programming on our multiple stages and throughout The Strand. Be sure to check out our Tiny Tim’s Playland with a petting zoo, kid’s activities, and more.

New this year is an exclusive audience with Queen Victorian and Charles Dickens themselves! Join Her Royal Highness Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 1:30 p.m. for a special question and answer/meet and greet with Her Royal Majesty Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens himself!

5. SNOW!

Who says it doesn’t snow on Galveston Island? We can guarantee snow conditions (until it’s gone!) at this year’s Dickens on The Strand with the return of our festival snow yard. Bundle up the kids for a slide, snowballs, slipping, sliding, and more.

The location for this and all of our festival attractions are posted on our “Maps & General Info” page.

PLEASE NOTE: Tickets are non-refundable. The festival is open rain or shine. GHF is not responsible for independent transactions between visitors and vendors. We are committed to making Dickens on The Strand special needs accessible. If we can assist with arrangements, please contact us at 409-765-7834 in advance of your visit.

Pets and ice chests are not allowed. Scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, skates, Segways, and other recreational “wheels” are forbidden. Guests bringing in costume weapons and props must have them secured will be asked to go through additional screening.