Monday, August 29, 2016

Galveston Island Kids Weekly Events & Activities Rundown Aug 29th-Sept 4th

Here is the Galveston Island weekly events & activities rundown for Aug 29th-Sept 4th 2016! Make sure you click on the links for more information on any activity you are interested in!

Weekly Events & Activities Aug 29th-Sept 4th

Mon Aug 29th

No special events or activities. Let me know if I missed something!

Tues Aug 30th

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *Reference below under ongoing events for more info!

Sugar Bean at Evia
        Hike It Baby Morning Coffee Stroll & Play 9:30am
       *Meet in front of Sugar Bean coffee house and walk to the playground nearby. Playground is shaded but bring bug and sun cream to avoid bugs and burns. Bring plenty of water and snacks if you wish! They will walk on street but traffic is minimal there, please plan accordingly if you wish to get coffee or any other refreshments or snack at the coffee place. (Recurring hike) *For first timers - to attend a HIB event, you are now required to register on their website and sign the waiver. Hike it Baby

Schreiber Park
       Hike it Baby After School Play Time 3:15-4:15pm
       *Meet HIB everyday at Schreiber (Spaceship, Rocketship) park for playground time. Meet in the middle under palms. This time outside also counts into HIB30 - 3x 30min per week! Weather permitted and only during school day (no Labor-day weekend or Labor Day. In the corner of playground there is a splash pad, prepare if you wish to splash! Hike it Baby

Wed Aug 31st

Schreiber Park
       Hike it Baby After School Play Time 3:15-4:15pm
       *Meet HIB everyday at Schreiber (Spaceship, Rocketship) park for playground time. Meet in the middle under palms. This time outside also counts into HIB30 - 3x 30min per week! Weather permitted and only during school day (no Labor-day weekend or Labor Day. In the corner of playground there is a splash pad, prepare if you wish to splash! Hike it Baby

Thurs Sep 1st  

Seawall & 81st
        Hike it Baby Seawall Fast Paced Hike 8-10am
       *Meet HIB at 81st street traffic light for morning paced walk. They will walk to the end of Seawall and back its a 3/4 mile long walk!!! Please keep your kids in stroller or carrier to avoid any accidents as we are walking by big drop off and busy street! Parking is free from 69th st to 81st. (Recurring hike)  *For first timers - to attend a HIB event, you are now required to register on their website and sign the waiver. Hike it Baby

Schreiber Park
       Hike it Baby After School Play Time 3:15-4:15pm
       *Meet HIB everyday at Schreiber (Spaceship, Rocketship) park for playground time. Meet in the middle under palms. This time outside also counts into HIB30 - 3x 30min per week! Weather permitted and only during school day (no Labor-day weekend or Labor Day. In the corner of playground there is a splash pad, prepare if you wish to splash! Hike it Baby

Menard Park
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 3-7pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Rosenberg Library
       Money Talks for Teens & Adults 7-9pm
       *Spend a few hours at the library learning to manage your money better. They will make it easy -- and fun -- to learn about credit cards, paying bills, budgets, saving, credit reports, and more. Join award-winning author/speaker Sally Taylor-Cannon and her book, Money Talks! Rosenberg Library

Fri Sept 2nd

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Schreiber Park
       Hike it Baby After School Play Time 3:15-4:15pm
       *Meet HIB everyday at Schreiber (Spaceship, Rocketship) park for playground time. Meet in the middle under palms. This time outside also counts into HIB30 - 3x 30min per week! Weather permitted and only during school day (no Labor-day weekend or Labor Day. In the corner of playground there is a splash pad, prepare if you wish to splash! Hike it Baby

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Paint Party 6-7pm  
       *Let the beauty found in Galveston Island State Park inspire you to pick up a brush and lay down some color. Create a one-of-a-kind souvenir, and make some memories with Ranger Lisa.

Saturday Sep 3rd

Home Depot Galveston
       Kids Workshop - Mini Whiteboard 9am-12pm
       *Join the hands-on workshop and you and your child can get to work on a mini whiteboard with a pen tray they can use for school work or play time. Once the whiteboard is built, your child can paint it in their favorite color. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron and pin. Home Depot Workshop

Galveston Harbour Tours
       Marine Biology Tour 9:30-11am
       *Galveston Historical Foundation’s Texas Seaport Museum is pleased to announce that they will be offering their Marine Biology Harbor Tour to the public on a limited basis. This unique experience takes place on board the SEAGULL II, a 50’ catamaran which docks at the Texas Seaport Museum, Pier 21, in Galveston. The tour starts at 9:30am and costs $15 per person for adults 19+, and $12 for youth aged 6-18. Children 5 and under are free and reservations can be made online at or by calling 409-763-1877.

Galveston Children's Museum
       Spectacular Saturday
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info! GCM Calendar

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Become a Jr. Ranger! 8:30am
       *Explore the park with some cool tools and tips. Join the short lesson and exploring hike. Great for families, young scouts, and youth of all ages to learn about the important job of a park ranger, and spend time discovering wildlife and hiking safety.
       Beach Exploration 10-11:30am  
       *Walks led by Galveston Bay Area Texas Master Naturalists - come and make memories with your family and friends.
       Sand Castle Contest 1-2pm
       *Ranger Lisa will clear an area for our contest, and bring some gear for you to use. We want to see what kind of castle you can make, so you're invited to spend some time gathering materials, building a structure, and decorating it to your liking! Prizes awarded to participants, but you can enter youth into our Arts in the Parks contest, via the Get to Know website for bigger prizes (ages 0-19yrs): http://www.get-to-know.org/contest/us/ Only sand castles made during the program count. No prior experience or materials needed.
       Insect Safari 3-4pm
       *The park will be handing out bug nets and heading to the fields in search of bug-eyed, six-legged critters from butterflies to grasshoppers. This fun-filled catch-study-release program is perfect for children of all ages with a fascination with the world of insects. Meet at the Nature Center and venture into the prairie and pond area for some great fun! So, come check out our bee hives, save some special species and know what's flying around you next time you venture out into the park.

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Saengerfest Park
       Movie Nite on the Strand 6-9pm
       *Come out to The Strand for a movie night! The Hunger Games will be showing! Free! Saengerfest Park

Sunday Sept 4th

Downtown
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Bay Exploration 10-11:00am  
       *Tours start at the Nature Learning Center and are led by volunteers from the Galveston Bay Area TX Master Naturalist. Come join the fun of seining, finding out more about fiddler crabs and experience all the bay has to offer.
        Sand Castle Contest 1-2pm
       *Ranger Lisa will clear an area for our contest, and bring some gear for you to use. We want to see what kind of castle you can make, so you're invited to spend some time gathering materials, building a structure, and decorating it to your liking! Prizes awarded to participants, but you can enter youth into our Arts in the Parks contest, via the Get to Know website for bigger prizes (ages 0-19yrs): http://www.get-to-know.org/contest/us/ Only sand castles made during the program count. No prior experience or materials needed.
        Insect Safari 3-4pm
       *The park will be handing out bug nets and heading to the fields in search of bug-eyed, six-legged critters from butterflies to grasshoppers. This fun-filled catch-study-release program is perfect for children of all ages with a fascination with the world of insects. Meet at the Nature Center and venture into the prairie and pond area for some great fun! So, come check out our bee hives, save some special species and know what's flying around you next time you venture out into the park.

East Beach
       GCVA "Labor Day Classic" 9am
       *The Gulf Coast Volleyball Association will host its  "Labor Day Classic" Tournament.
Free T-Shirts For first 100 Players who check in at the beach. Entry Fees: $25 per person, $50 per team. GCVA
       Live Music at East Beach: Dark Energy 3-6pm
       *Visitors to East Beach will be able to enjoy free, live concerts at the pavilion’s entertainment stage throughout the summer with the return of the park’s summer music series sponsored by the Galveston Park Board of Trustees.  Live Music

The Grand 1894 Opera House
       Galveston Symphony Orchestra 4pm
       *Pops Concert – Broadway Classics – Trond Saeverud, Conductor. The Galveston Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to mastering and performing the full range of symphonic literature. Tickets are $30 Adult and $20 Children. Tickets may be purchased at The Grand’s Box Office, 2020 Postoffice Street, by calling 409.765.1894, 800.821.1894, or online. The Grand
       

Ongoing Events & Activities

Galveston Children's Museum
       Mommy, Daddy & Me 10am and Storytime 11am (Tues-Fri)   
       Spectacular Saturday 12:30-1:30pm (Every Saturday)
       *Additional science or art activity included with admission price. 
GCM Calendar

Schreiber Park
       Hike it Baby After School Play Time 3:15-4:15pm (Daily)
       *Meet HIB everyday at Schreiber (Spaceship, Rocketship) park for playground time. Meet in the middle under palms. This time outside also counts into HIB30 - 3x 30min per week! Weather permitted and only during school day (no Labor-day weekend or Labor Day. In the corner of playground there is a splash pad, prepare if you wish to splash! Hike it Baby

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *From now on Tuesday will be Tiny Tot Tuesday at Clay Cup Studios! Bring your child in and for only $10 they can paint their very own tot.  Tiny Tot Tuesday

Downtown/Menard Park 
2508 Post Office or McGuire Dent Recreation Center
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm (Sun) & 3-7pm (Thurs) (Every Sunday & Thursday)
      *Pick up some local produce and help support local farmers and growers. They usually have a kids corner here and an artist playing some tunes.  Farmers Market 

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm (Every Sunday)
       *Get a fresh start to the day and set sail on the Galveston Sea Scout Base's schooner boat during "Schooner Sundays." The massive sailing beauty leaves Offats Bayou just after noon each Sunday and sails out to destinations beyond Galveston causeway. A licensed captain and “spot tracker” is aboard the ship, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. *Check with website for cost involved*
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm (Every Saturday)
       *Looking for something FUN? Hop aboard the M/V Baysmart Express for a 3 hour informative and scenic tour! Watch the pelicans soar over Offatts Bayou as you head into the Intercostal Waterway and pass under the Galveston Causeway Bridge. Be awed at the marine cargo vessels maneuvering in the Galveston and Houston Ship Channels. Dolphins surfacing are always exciting! Departing from and returning to the Sea Scout Base Galveston. Boarding at 12:30 - Departing at 1:00pm. Overflow parking with shuttle service available. Adults: $30 | Kids (Under 12): $20 | Kids 5 and Under: Free  SSB Calendar

Galveston Island Beaches/Locations (Locations Vary)
Artist Boat
       Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours 9:30am-4:30pm (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
       *Come spend an hour on a Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tour, and learn about the creatures and features that make Galveston's marine and coastal ecosystems so special! Tours provide free hands-on exploration of questions such as: Why does the water change colors? How is seaweed a good thing? How do I connect to the ocean? The tours are educational and fun for ocean lovers of all ages. Each tour caps at 20 participants, but with multiple tours each day, they welcome individuals and groups. Sign-up for tours is on location, but if your group would like to reserve a tour, email the Bucket Brigade Coordinator at kguidroz@artistboat.org, or call Artist Boat at (409)770-0722. Check out the website for a full schedule and tour times!  Beach Tours
       Kayak Adventure (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
      *Artist Boat is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and preservation of coastal margins and the marine environment through the disciplines of the sciences and the arts. There is a cost for each trip! Please check online for location/time of each trip. Book online at Kayak Adventure

Let me know if I missed anything!!!!

Sunday, August 21, 2016

Galveston Island Kids Weekly Events & Activities Rundown Aug 22nd-28th

Here is the Galveston Island weekly events & activities rundown for Aug 22nd-28th 2016! Make sure you click on the links for more information on any activity you are interested in!

Weekly Events & Activities Aug 22nd-28th

Mon Aug 22nd

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Schreiber Park Splash Pad
        Splash Pad Stay & Play 9:30am
       *The kiddos will get to splash around for approximately two hours. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and towels. Meet at the splash pad. Look for a little lady in a straw hat – that’s the hike leader! *For first timers - to attend a HIB event, you are now required to register on their website and sign the waiver. Hike it Baby

Tues Aug 23rd

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *Reference below under ongoing events for more info!

Sugar Bean at Evia
        Hike It Baby Morning Coffee Stroll & Play 9:30am
       *Meet in front of Sugar Bean coffee house and walk to the playground nearby. Playground is shaded but bring bug and sun cream to avoid bugs and burns. Bring plenty of water and snacks if you wish! They will walk on street but traffic is minimal there, please plan accordingly if you wish to get coffee or any other refreshments or snack at the coffee place. (Recurring hike) *For first timers - to attend a HIB event, you are now required to register on their website and sign the waiver. Hike it Baby

Wed Aug 24th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Thurs Aug 25th  

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Sugar Bean at Evia
        Hike it Baby Seawall Fast Paced Hike 8-10am
       *Meet HIB at 81st street traffic light for morning paced walk. They will walk to the end of Seawall and back its a 3/4 mile long walk!!! Please keep your kids in stroller or carrier to avoid any accidents as we are walking by big drop off and busy street! Parking is free from 69th st to 81st. (Recurring hike)  *For first timers - to attend a HIB event, you are now required to register on their website and sign the waiver. Hike it Baby

Menard Park
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 3-7pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Rosenberg Library
       Money Talks for Teens & Adults 7-9pm
       *Spend a few hours at the library learning to manage your money better. They will make it easy -- and fun -- to learn about credit cards, paying bills, budgets, saving, credit reports, and more. Join award-winning author/speaker Sally Taylor-Cannon and her book, Money Talks! Rosenberg Library

Orange Leaf Yogurt
       Orange Leaf Yogurt Spirit Night 5:30-8:30pm
       *Need to cool off? Then join Spirit Event at Orange Leaf Yogurt. For every cup of FROYO sold, Orange Leaf will donate 15% of each sale to Endangered Species Conservation so come on out and support your local AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) chapter! GCAAZK

Fri Aug 26th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Pleasure Pier
       Landry's Select Club Weekend (Aug 26th-28th)
       * Members of Landry's Select Club receive buy one get one free admission! *You must be a Select Club member! Select Club Weekend

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Clay Cup Studios
       Tween Night - Back to School Party 6-8pm
       *Tween Night is always a big hit with the kids ages 9-13. This Tween Night you will be taking pictures and using them with a melted crayon art method. Hang the pictures in your room or in your locker and showcase your best friend or a new friend you just met. This will be a paint party so dress to have fun Includes Projects, Dinner & Drinks The cost is $35. Clay Cup Events

Saturday Aug 27th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Pleasure Pier
       Landry's Select Club Weekend (Aug 26th-28th)
       * Members of Landry's Select Club receive buy one get one free admission! *You must be a Select Club member! Select Club Weekend

Galveston Children's Museum
       Spectacular Saturday
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info! GCM Calendar

Moody Gardens
       Adaptive Watersports Festival 10am - 4pm
       *This event welcomes individuals with special needs to participate in aquatic sports, such as water skiing, sailing and kayaking, with special equipment and instructors. All activities, weather permitting, will be offered free of charge to the individual with special needs and immediate family members (limit of 4 guests) on a first come, first serve basis. Pre-registration is required. Due to limited time, family members of participants will not be allowed to partake in water skiing offered through the event but can enjoy Palm Beach. Additional guests can participate by purchasing a regular admission to Palm Beach. The event schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions. Moody Gardens

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Beach Exploration 10-11:30am  
       *Walks led by Galveston Bay Area Texas Master Naturalists - come and make memories with your family and friends.

Kitchen Chick
       Build a Better Lunchbox - Parent/Child Class 11am - 2pm
       *Chef Bailey Glover is teaching a special parent/child cooking class designed to fill your lunchbox with your favorite treats! Forget about the prepackaged snacks, Chef Bailey will teach you how to make good-for-you granola bars from scratch, tasty spinach pinwheels, easy peasy apple sauce, fresh vegetable spring rolls with an irrisistible peanut dipping sauce and very vanilla pudding for a sweet treat! Plus learn to make microwave popcorn without all the preservatives! This is a cooking class that you AND your child will enjoy down to the last bite! Seating is limited. $65/pair (1 parent + 1 child 6 years and older). Please call 409-497-2999 to reserve your spot! Reservations are made on a first come, first serve basis (website comments will NOT count as reservations; you must call us!). Payment is due at the time of reservation. Kitchen Chick

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Downtown/The Strand
       Artwalk 6-9pm
       *Take a visit to some of Galveston's best art galleries at Artwalk! Many offer snacks for kiddos and drinks for adults! Artwalk

Sunday Aug 28th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Pleasure Pier
       Landry's Select Club Weekend (Aug 26th-28th)
       * Members of Landry's Select Club receive buy one get one free admission! *You must be a Select Club member! Select Club Weekend

Downtown
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Bay Exploration 10-11:00am  
       *Tours start at the Nature Learning Center and are led by volunteers from the Galveston Bay Area TX Master Naturalist. Come join the fun of seining, finding out more about fiddler crabs and experience all the bay has to offer.

East Beach
       Live Music at East Beach: Dark Energy 3-6pm
       *Visitors to East Beach will be able to enjoy free, live concerts at the pavilion’s entertainment stage throughout the summer with the return of the park’s summer music series sponsored by the Galveston Park Board of Trustees.  Live Music

Ongoing Events & Activities

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Galveston Children's Museum
       Mommy, Daddy & Me 10am and Storytime 11am (Tues-Fri)   
       Spectacular Saturday 12:30-1:30pm (Every Saturday)
       *Additional science or art activity included with admission price. 
GCM Calendar

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *From now on Tuesday will be Tiny Tot Tuesday at Clay Cup Studios! Bring your child in and for only $10 they can paint their very own tot.  Tiny Tot Tuesday

Downtown/Menard Park 
2508 Post Office or McGuire Dent Recreation Center
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm (Sun) & 3-7pm (Thurs) (Every Sunday & Thursday)
      *Pick up some local produce and help support local farmers and growers. They usually have a kids corner here and an artist playing some tunes.  Farmers Market 

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm (Every Sunday)
       *Get a fresh start to the day and set sail on the Galveston Sea Scout Base's schooner boat during "Schooner Sundays." The massive sailing beauty leaves Offats Bayou just after noon each Sunday and sails out to destinations beyond Galveston causeway. A licensed captain and “spot tracker” is aboard the ship, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. *Check with website for cost involved*
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm (Every Saturday)
       *Looking for something FUN? Hop aboard the M/V Baysmart Express for a 3 hour informative and scenic tour! Watch the pelicans soar over Offatts Bayou as you head into the Intercostal Waterway and pass under the Galveston Causeway Bridge. Be awed at the marine cargo vessels maneuvering in the Galveston and Houston Ship Channels. Dolphins surfacing are always exciting! Departing from and returning to the Sea Scout Base Galveston. Boarding at 12:30 - Departing at 1:00pm. Overflow parking with shuttle service available. Adults: $30 | Kids (Under 12): $20 | Kids 5 and Under: Free  SSB Calendar

Galveston Island Beaches/Locations (Locations Vary)
Artist Boat
       Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours 9:30am-4:30pm (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
       *Come spend an hour on a Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tour, and learn about the creatures and features that make Galveston's marine and coastal ecosystems so special! Tours provide free hands-on exploration of questions such as: Why does the water change colors? How is seaweed a good thing? How do I connect to the ocean? The tours are educational and fun for ocean lovers of all ages. Each tour caps at 20 participants, but with multiple tours each day, they welcome individuals and groups. Sign-up for tours is on location, but if your group would like to reserve a tour, email the Bucket Brigade Coordinator at kguidroz@artistboat.org, or call Artist Boat at (409)770-0722. Check out the website for a full schedule and tour times!  Beach Tours
       Kayak Adventure (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
      *Artist Boat is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and preservation of coastal margins and the marine environment through the disciplines of the sciences and the arts. There is a cost for each trip! Please check online for location/time of each trip. Book online at Kayak Adventure

Let me know if I missed anything!!!!

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

You Know You're a Galveston Island Parent When...

Let's face it, whether you are BOI or an IBC like me, you quickly learn what it takes to raise kids on the island. Here a few ways to
know you are fully immersed as a Galveston Island parent.

You Know You're a Galveston Island Parent When...

1. At least one, if not all, of your children have learned to crawl and/or walk at the Moody Gardens Aquarium. You know the penguins love seeing your kids grow up!

2. You have mosquito spray in your house at the front door, back door, in the car, in the stroller, in the diaper bag or let's just say it - probably in a fanny pack attached to your waist. No Zika for us!!!!

3. Your child's car seat is filled with 3 things: sand, sand, and more sand. And maybe a goldfish cracker or two.

4. At least one, if not all, of your children are BOI. And you are going to make sure they know it and wear it right like the badge of honor it is! ;-p

5. The staff at The Galveston Children's Museum remark how fast your kids are growing up. We know GCM, we know.

6. You've been to The Rainforest Cafe more times than you would like to admit. The food is meh, but man if your kids don't love those gorillas.

7. Instead of stepping on Legos in your house, you step on pretty colored beads that are thrown to your child from EVERY holiday parade Galveston has. You give them back, but they just get the same exact ones next year. Hey, at least you can make cute Mardi Gras wreaths from them! 

8. You have a love/hate relationship with Palm Beach. It really depends on how ambitious you're feeling if they get to go that day or not. Ha!

9. You become the cool parent (for 5 seconds) when you agree to take them to an activity at The Rosenberg Library. They don't need to know your motivation was that it was free and air conditioned. By the way, thanks for all the free activities Rosenberg Library!

10. Schreiber Park has become your new go-to park! Even if it makes you cringe a little every time they climb to the top. The rocket ship is pretty high....

And last but not least - you follow Galveston Island Kids of course!! :-D

*For reference BOI = Born on Island and IBC = Islander By Choice

Sunday, August 14, 2016

Galveston Island Kids Weekly Events & Activities Rundown Aug 15th-21st

Here is the Galveston Island weekly events & activities rundown for Aug 15th-21st 2016! Make sure you click on the links for more information on any activity you are interested in!

Weekly Events & Activities Aug 15th-21st

Mon Aug 15th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Rosenberg Library
       Book Smarts 10-11am
       *Emerging readers need lots of practice! This interactive program provides opportunities for new readers to improve their reading skills. For K-2nd graders and their caregivers.
       Paws to Read 11am
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!  Rosenberg Library

Tues Aug 16th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *Reference below under ongoing events for more info!

Sugar Bean at Evia
        Hike It Baby Morning Coffee Stroll & Play 9:30am
       *Meet in front of Sugar Bean coffee house and walk to the playground nearby. Playground is shaded but bring bug and sun cream to avoid bugs and burns. Bring plenty of water and snacks if you wish! They will walk on street but traffic is minimal there, please plan accordingly if you wish to get coffee or any other refreshments or snack at the coffee place. (Recurring hike) *Make sure sign waiver online if hiking with HIB for the first time! HIB Coffee Stroll

Sealy Pavilion
       Galveston Beach Band 7:30pm
       *Reference below under ongoing events for more info!

Wed Aug 17th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Pleasure Pier
       Thrill Ride Wednesdays
       *Buy one, get one for $10 all day ride passes!! Thrill Ride Wednesdays

Thurs Aug 18th  

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Sugar Bean at Evia
        Hike it Baby Seawall Fast Paced Hike 8-10am
       *Meet HIB at 81st street traffic light for morning paced walk. They will walk to the end of Seawall and back its a 3/4 mile long walk!!! Please keep your kids in stroller or carrier to avoid any accidents as we are walking by big drop off and busy street! Parking is free from 69th st to 81st. (Recurring hike) *Make sure sign waiver online if hiking with HIB for the first time! Seawall Hike

Menard Park
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 3-7pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Rosenberg Library
       Money Talks for Teens & Adults 7-9pm
       *Spend a few hours at the library learning to manage your money better. They will make it easy -- and fun -- to learn about credit cards, paying bills, budgets, saving, credit reports, and more. Join award-winning author/speaker Sally Taylor-Cannon and her book, Money Talks! Rosenberg Library

The Moody Methodist Labyrinth
       Full Moon Labyrinth Walk: Sturgeon Moon 8:30pm
       *The public is invited to participate in Full Moon labyrinth walks.  Each walk begins approximately 1/2 hours after sunset. Full Moon Walk

Fri Aug 19th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Saturday Aug 20th

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

East Beach
       AIA Sandcastle Competition 9am-4:30pm
       *For over two decades teams of architects, designers, and engineers have taken their tools to East Beach in Galveston for one of the world’s largest sandcastle competitions. The AIA SandCastle Competition is a fund-raising event for AIA Houston and ArCH Foundation. This year over 60 teams have their eyes and shovels set on winning the prestigious Golden Bucket Award. AIA Sandcastle

Valiant Church
       Back To School Fresh Cuts 9-11am
       *Bring your kid for a haircut! Or volunteer and help out! Join Salty Culture as they help style up Galveston kids with fresh FREE cuts as they head back to school! If you are interested in being a stylist or sponsoring breakfast for this event please email info@saltyculture.com! Volunteers are welcome to show up the morning of and pitch in where extra hands are needed! Fresh Cuts

Moody Gardens
       Birding 201 9am
       *Take what you learned in Birding 101 and apply it to the field! Go on a hunt for the birds on the island. Participants should meet in the Aquarium Pyramid lobby. The cost for the class is $5, and Moody Gardens® will provide the transportation. To reserve a spot, please call 409-683-4101 no later than the Wednesday prior to the Saturday class. Moody Gardens

Galveston Harbour Tours
       Marine Biology Tour 9:30-11am
       *Galveston Historical Foundation’s Texas Seaport Museum is pleased to announce that they will be offering their Marine Biology Harbor Tour to the public on a limited basis. This unique experience takes place on board the SEAGULL II, a 50’ catamaran which docks at the Texas Seaport Museum, Pier 21, in Galveston. The tour starts at 9:30am and costs $15 per person for adults 19+, and $12 for youth aged 6-18. Children 5 and under are free and reservations can be made online at or by calling 409-763-1877.

Galveston Island Brewing
       Brewing for Rhinos! 12-8pm
       *This awesome family-friendly event is a big party complete with local craft beer, food, live music, bake sale, relaxing massage sessions, special event pint glasses and shirts, fun games, meet-the-zookeeper Q&A, and an amazing auction and raffle bar. All proceeds will be donated to protect rhinos and their environment at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya.  Every year, all chapters of the American Association of Zoo Keepers put on an event to support this cause.  Brewing for Rhinos!

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Beach Exploration 10-11:30am  
       *Walks led by Galveston Bay Area Texas Master Naturalists - come and make memories with your family and friends.
       Isand Survivor 11:30-12:30pm
       *Game of life and death in paradise for beach safety.Could you survive the wilderness of Galveston Island State Park? This paradise can be harsh for those without beach safety knowledge. Get the basics at this fun game for the whole family! Prizes awarded thanks to the Galveston Island Beach Patrol.
       Sand Castle Contest 2:30-3:30pm
       *Ranger Lisa will clear an area for our contest, and bring some gear for you to use. The park wants to see what kind of castle you can make, so you're invited to spend some time gathering materials, building a structure, and decorating it to your liking! Prizes awarded to participants, but you can enter youth into our Arts in the Parks contest, via the Get to Know website for bigger prizes (ages 0-19yrs): Get to Know  Only sand castles made during the program count. No prior experience or materials needed.

Galveston Children's Museum
       Spectacular Saturday
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info! GCM Calendar

Sunday Aug 21st

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark
       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week
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Downtown
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm
       *Reference above under ongoing events for more info!

Galveston Island State Park
All events are free with park admission ($5 person/13 & under free)  GISP Calendar
       Bay Exploration 10-11:00am  
       *Tours start at the Nature Learning Center and are led by volunteers from the Galveston Bay Area TX Master Naturalist. Come join the fun of seining, finding out more about fiddler crabs and experience all the bay has to offer.

East Beach
       Live Music at East Beach: Blaggards 3-6pm
       *Visitors to East Beach will be able to enjoy free, live concerts at the pavilion’s entertainment stage throughout the summer with the return of the park’s summer music series sponsored by the Galveston Park Board of Trustees.  Live Music

Ongoing Events & Activities

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

       American Heroes Week (Aug 15-Aug 28)
       *Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs are admitted FREE during this special week as a salute to our troops and public safety officers. Tickets for Spouses and Dependents are available for 50% off the gate price. American Heroes Week

Galveston Children's Museum
       Mommy, Daddy & Me 10am and Storytime 11am (Tues-Fri)   
       Spectacular Saturday 12:30-1:30pm (Every Saturday)
       *Additional science or art activity included with admission price. 
GCM Calendar

Rosenberg Library
       Paws to Read 6-7pm (Jun 2nd-Aug 4th - Every Thursday) & 11am-12pm (Jun 13th-Aug 15th - Every Monday)
       *Stop by the Children’s Department and read a story to one of their furry canine friends!
Rosenberg Library

Moody Gardens
       Wings of Wonder Bird Show (Jun 4th-Aug 20th - 12pm, 2pm, & 4pm - Daily)
       *Get up close to owls, falcons, hawks, vultures and a variety of other bird species as you learn about these amazing creatures and their place in nature.

Sealy Pavilion
       Galveston Beach Band 7:30pm (Jun 7th- Aug 16th - Every Tuesday)
       *Join the Galveston Beach Band every Tuesday evening this summer beginning June 7th at 7:30 PM for a weekly outdoor summer pop band concert.  Every concert is free and offers great musical entertainment for the entire family! Kids play maracas, do the hokey pokey, and have a parade at the end! Galveston Beach Band

Tremont Gallery
       Children's Art Classes 3-7pm (August - Every Friday)
       *Children's Art Classes every Friday 3-5pm & 5-7pm, $20 per class, all art supplies provided, as well as healthy snacks and drinks. Tremont Art Classes

Clay Cup Studios
       Tiny Tot Tuesday (Every Tuesday)
       *From now on Tuesday will be Tiny Tot Tuesday at Clay Cup Studios! Bring your child in and for only $10 they can paint their very own tot.  Tiny Tot Tuesday

Downtown/Menard Park 
2508 Post Office or McGuire Dent Recreation Center
       Galveston’s Own Farmers Market 9-1pm (Sun) & 3-7pm (Thurs) (Every Sunday & Thursday)
      *Pick up some local produce and help support local farmers and growers. They usually have a kids corner here and an artist playing some tunes.  Farmers Market 

Sea Scout Base Galveston
       Schooner Sundays 11-5pm (Every Sunday)
       *Get a fresh start to the day and set sail on the Galveston Sea Scout Base's schooner boat during "Schooner Sundays." The massive sailing beauty leaves Offats Bayou just after noon each Sunday and sails out to destinations beyond Galveston causeway. A licensed captain and “spot tracker” is aboard the ship, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. *Check with website for cost involved*
       M/V Baysmart Express Public Cruise 12:30-4pm (Every Saturday)
       *Looking for something FUN? Hop aboard the M/V Baysmart Express for a 3 hour informative and scenic tour! Watch the pelicans soar over Offatts Bayou as you head into the Intercostal Waterway and pass under the Galveston Causeway Bridge. Be awed at the marine cargo vessels maneuvering in the Galveston and Houston Ship Channels. Dolphins surfacing are always exciting! Departing from and returning to the Sea Scout Base Galveston. Boarding at 12:30 - Departing at 1:00pm. Overflow parking with shuttle service available. Adults: $30 | Kids (Under 12): $20 | Kids 5 and Under: Free  SSB Calendar

Galveston Island Beaches/Locations (Locations Vary)
Artist Boat
       Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours 9:30am-4:30pm (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
       *Come spend an hour on a Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tour, and learn about the creatures and features that make Galveston's marine and coastal ecosystems so special! Tours provide free hands-on exploration of questions such as: Why does the water change colors? How is seaweed a good thing? How do I connect to the ocean? The tours are educational and fun for ocean lovers of all ages. Each tour caps at 20 participants, but with multiple tours each day, they welcome individuals and groups. Sign-up for tours is on location, but if your group would like to reserve a tour, email the Bucket Brigade Coordinator at kguidroz@artistboat.org, or call Artist Boat at (409)770-0722. Check out the website for a full schedule and tour times!  Beach Tours
       Kayak Adventure (Tours departing at various times - Daily in the summer)
      *Artist Boat is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and preservation of coastal margins and the marine environment through the disciplines of the sciences and the arts. There is a cost for each trip! Please check online for location/time of each trip. Book online at Kayak Adventure

Let me know if I missed anything!!!!