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 178 years. Dickens on The Strand, now in its 50th 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 50th 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, and Galveston Children’s Museum activities await our young guests.

In addition to the hands-on activities, the Tiny Tim’s stage will have kid-specific programming throughout the day!

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. CHICKENS ON THE STRAND SCAVENGER HUNT

Explore the Strand Mechanic National Historic Landmark District in our new scavenger hunt! Find all six illustrated chickens hidden throughout the festival, take a photo, and tag them with #ChickensOnTheStrand via your favorite social media account. These 11 inches by 17 inches tall chicken drawings will be randomly placed throughout the festival. Be on the lookout for:

Queen Chicktoria
Prince Albert
Charles Chickens
Chickob Marley
Eggbinezer Scrooge
Featherwig

The first six who find them all will get their pick of one of the framed illustrations.

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.

Snowyard access is $10 for youth and available for purchase at all festival pubs, including the one located closes to the snowyard.

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.