Family Friendly Attractions & Events

The V.U.P. package includes a room for one night, a public Penguin Encounter at 3pm, four two-day passes to ICE LAND Ice Sculptures, Festival of Lights with ice skating, 3D & 4D Theaters, Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, Arctic Slide; Aquarium, Discovery and Rainforest Pyramids.  Available dates November 28-30; December 6-7, 13-14, 20-29, and January 1, 2025. Package is pre-paid, nonrefundable and must be reserved 24 hours prior to the 3pm Penguin Encounter.  

It's holiday fun for all ages as a skilled team of master ice carvers has taken 2 million pounds of ice to create your festive journey from the North to South Poles. Encounter polar bears, penguins, humpback whales, snowy owls, walruses, reindeer and so much more. It's a cool experience as you soar down the giant Ice Slide and enjoy your favorite holiday spirits at Shivers Ice Bar.

This year, the holiday season will shine brighter than ever with an event that has become a tradition for families and groups alike. Enjoy a festive stroll along this mile-long trail featuring more than two million lights and lighted scenes themed to holiday music that take you around the Moody Gardens property with spectacular views of Galveston Bay. Stops along the way bring you to see Star the Dancing Tree of Light, concession areas, hot chocolate, fireside S'mores and other festive foods, and mistletoe, along with plenty of photo and selfie opportunities!

Individual attraction tickets are available on-site - times subject to change. Please call 409-683-4200​ for daily times and questions.

Individual attraction tickets are available on-site - times subject to change.

Individual attraction tickets are available on-site - times subject to change. Please call 409-683-4200 for daily times and questions.

Great for all kids entering grades K-8! Camp programs include different attraction experiences, activities, games, crafts and experiments making every camp day unique! Daily camps are a great option for the kids during school break or a fun day for all the kids visiting during the holidays! Register for one day or multiple days.

Enjoy holiday films all season long in the MG 3D Theater and 4D Special FX Theater! Films include Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D, Jerusalem 3D, Train Time 3D, and Light Before Christmas 3D.

Embrace the holiday spirit at our Holiday in the Gardens Buffet! Delight in a sumptuous selection of festive dishes at The Garden Restaurant. Gather your friends and family for a heartwarming meal that celebrates the joy of the season.

Thanksgiving Brunch
November 28, Frances Anne Moody Ballroom, 10:30 - 2:30 pm
Indulge in a mouthwatering Thanksgiving brunch featuring herb-roasted beef tenderloin, seafood-stuffed redfish, citrus-brined turkey breast, and more. Enjoy freshly baked croissants, gluten-free breads, seasonal fruits, made-to-order omelets, a waffle station, and a variety of salads, soups, seafood, and entrées.

Thanksgiving Buffet
November 28, The Garden Restaurant, 10:30 - 8:00 pm
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a bountiful buffet that indulges in perfectly roasted turkey, savory glazed ham, all served alongside an assortment of delicious holiday desserts. Enjoy a feast filled with warmth, flavor, and a welcoming atmosphere that promises to make your Thanksgiving Day truly special.

Thanksgiving Plated Lunch
November 28, Café in the Park, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a beautifully curated plated lunch featuring a crisp Caesar salad to start. Enjoy a choice of succulent main courses, accompanied by delicious sides, and finish with our chef’s selection of trio desserts for a delightful sweet touch—perfect for sharing the warmth of the holiday!

Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet
November 28, Café in the Park, 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Join us for a festive Thanksgiving dinner buffet featuring a variety of delightful options, including fresh salads and rich lobster bisque soup. Enjoy a carving station with tender roasted prime rib, maple-studded ham, and more, complemented by traditional sides—perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends!

Christmas Eve Buffet
December 24, The Garden Restaurant, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

Enjoy a delectable Christmas Eve Buffet offering a family friendly atmosphere featuring Holiday Roasted Chicken, Roast of Ribeye, Holiday Ham, a selection of salads, side dishes, and sampling of cookies and cakes.

Christmas Day Buffet
December 25, The Garden Restaurant, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

‍Let Moody Gardens prepare your Christmas Feast! Enjoy a buffet of offerings of traditional, festive Christmas entrees, side dishes, appetizers, desserts and more.

Leading up to Christmas, be entertained with Breakfast with Santa! Indulge in breakfast favorites like waffles, eggs, and bacon. Take a memorable photo before the jolly man sets off to deliver presents worldwide.  

Moody Gardens and Mirage Entertainment present this fantastic Christmas show which combines musical theater illusions, acrobatics, stunning visuals and electrifying performances into a heartwarming spectacle that will reignite your holiday joy.

An action packed adventure awaits the whole family. Check out hotel packages that include spectacular accommodations and family-friendly activities including air hockey, foosball, bounce houses, arcade games, adult lounge area, attractions tickets and Holiday Fantasy: A Live Show Spectacular tickets.

It's time to celebrate sparkle and dance your way right into 2025. Enjoy live music by the Mambo Jazz Kings with an array of hors d'oeuvres, two complimentary drink tickets, cash bar and a balloon drop for an unforgettable evening at the Francis and Moody Ballroom.

Whether it's a corporate party, social group or your family, Moody Gardens has discounts available for groups of 20 or more. You can have a fun evening of holiday attractions and even the nightly buffet. We also have the facilities to plan large and small holiday events. Contact our Group Sales Team at 409-683-4558 or email AttractionSales@moodygardens.org to plan your holiday party today.