Experience This Winter Festival in Texas in February

I grew up attending Mardi Gras in Beaumont and Port Arthur, but if I’m being honest, neither of those celebrations holds a candle to Mardi Gras in Galveston, Texas. The annual two-week event features lively float parades, delicious food, balcony parties, live entertainment, and so much more. So get all decked out in purple, yellow, and green, and get ready to have some fun!

The third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country (second only to New Orleans and Mobile), Mardi Gras in Galveston, Texas began in 1911 and attracts upwards of 350,000 people each year. Take a day trip to Galveston and enjoy this year’s festivities, which take place from February 6 to February 17, 2026. Over three million beads are thrown each year, with some special surprises mixed in (more on that in a bit!) 

Galveston's historic downtown district, The Strand, turns into one big party as colorful floats parade down the street and live bands and DJs deliver upbeat performances. You can either stand on the sidelines and watch at ground level or buy tickets to a balcony party for an even better view of the festivities. Balcony parties are known for being tons of fun, featuring cash bars and music.

If you're interested in riding on a float, the process is seamless. All you have to do is bring your crew (or "krewe," as it's known in Mardi Gras culture), and the festival organizers supply the float, beads, and a driver. If you have a golf cart, there's also a special golf cart parade.

Now, more on those special surprises I mentioned earlier. The festival hands out several "Golden Beads" that include prizes like a cruise, VIP tickets to the Galveston Island Wine Festival, round-trip tickets to Mexico, and more. Nobody knows exactly which parades the beads will be thrown in, so attend as many as possible if you can!

Many of the historic homes in The Strand join in the fun by adorning their front gates with over-the-top Mardi Gras decorations. No matter where you go on the island, the vivacious spirit of Carnival season is impossible to escape.

Visit the Mardi Gras! Galveston website for more information about this year’s festival, including a full schedule of parades and entertainment, as well as how to sign up to ride on a float. And if you're looking for more things to do in the area or find a place to stay when you visit, be sure to check out our itinerary planner for recommendations!