Holiday in the Gardens Moody Gardens 2025 - Collage

Last Updated On – 19th December, 2025

Holiday in the Gardens returns to Moody Gardens in Galveston, transforming the property into one of Texas’ biggest holiday destinations. From the iconic Festival of Lights trail to the Iceland ice-carving experience and holiday shows, this annual celebration offers something for every age and budget.

If you’re planning a visit in 2025, here’s your complete guide to Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens, including ticket prices, dates, attractions, parking, and what’s new this year.

Ready for even more holiday fun? Explore our full guide to Weekend Happenings in Houston and keep your December packed with can’t-miss events.

Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.

This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Also, check out our recent articles on Tanglewood Christmas Lights, Dickinson Festival of Lights, Shepherd Park Plaza Christmas Lights, Robinson Road Missouri City Christmas Lights, Lights in the Heights, Christmas Lights Houston, River Oaks Christmas Lights, and Prestonwood Christmas Lights.

What Is Holiday in the Gardens?

Holiday in the Gardens

Image credit: Moody Gardens

Holiday in the Gardens is Moody Gardens’ signature winter celebration in Galveston, turning the entire property into a spectacular holiday playground from late November through early January. Each year, the resort transforms into a glowing wonderland filled with world-class ice sculptures, millions of lights, seasonal attractions, and activities for all ages.

A Look at the Main Attractions

At the heart of the event is ICE LAND, the largest annual ice sculpture exhibition in the United States. Inside this massive, chilled environment, you can walk among towering frozen carvings crafted by master ice artists depicting global landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, and the Great Wall of China.

For 2025, the exhibition embraces a “Christmas Around the World” theme, blending international icons with festive holiday scenes.

Just steps away, the beloved Festival of Lights offers a slower-paced, magical stroll through a one-mile trail lined with more than two million lights and animated displays synchronized to holiday music. Families can warm up with hot cocoa, roast s’mores at the fire pits, or snap photos with Santa or the whimsical Star, the Dancing Tree of Light.

Holiday in the Gardens also brings winter fun to the Gulf Coast with its outdoor ice skating rink and the exhilarating Arctic Slide, a two-story ice slide that sends guests gliding downhill (height restrictions apply). Younger visitors can hop aboard the Kiddie Train, a charming mini ride designed especially for children under 48 inches tall.

Shows and Seasonal Entertainment

When you need a break from the cold, Moody Gardens’ 3D and 4D theaters keep the festivities going indoors. Guests can enjoy holiday films like Scrooge 4D and the Rudolph 4D Experience, complete with immersive effects such as snowfall, wind, and gingerbread scents.

Additional features like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea add an adventurous twist to the holiday lineup.

Holiday in the Gardens 2025 Dates

Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens

Image Credit: Visitgalveston.com

Moody Gardens’ Holiday in the Gardens returns for the 2025–2026 season from November 22, 2025, through January 3, 2026, once again transforming the Galveston resort into a full holiday destination packed with lights, ice attractions, and seasonal entertainment.

Operating Hours

The festival opens daily, with most activities running until 10 p.m. throughout the season.

Outdoor favorites like Festival of Lights, ICE LAND, the skating rink, and the Arctic Slide typically operate from about 5 p.m. onward, when the lights come alive.

Because Holiday in the Gardens includes multiple attractions with their own schedules, exact hours may vary slightly day-to-day, and some features remain weather dependent, especially ice and outdoor activities. Checking the latest details at the official page before your visit is always recommended.

Special Themed Nights

Several themed evenings return for 2025, offering discounts and extra reasons to visit:

  • Dog Nights – Tuesdays
    December 2, 9, and 16
    Guests can bring their leashed pups for a pet-friendly holiday stroll through the Festival of Lights.

  • Food Drive Nights – Thursdays
    December 4 through January 1
    Visitors who bring non-perishable food donations receive discounted admission on these nights.

  • Sensory Night – Wednesday, December 17
    Designed for guests who prefer a calmer environment, with reduced noise, softer lighting, and staff accommodations throughout the evening.

Holiday Adjustments

Most attractions operate nightly throughout the season, but Christmas Day brings limited or modified operations, and select features may pause during inclement weather. Always verify updated schedules before heading out.

Holiday in the Gardens Tickets 2025

Holiday in the Garden

Image credit: Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens offers a range of ticket options for the 2025–2026 Holiday in the Gardens season, from full-evening passes to single-attraction tickets. Below is a clear breakdown of each option so visitors can choose the best fit for their budget and plans.

Holiday Evening Pass

Available after 4 p.m. only (Holiday Lights open at dusk, usually around 6 p.m.)

This all-in-one evening pass includes:

  • ICE LAND admission

  • Holiday Lights mile-long trail

  • Four trips down the Arctic Slide (must be at least 36″ tall)

  • Ice Skating Rink access (skate rentals sold separately at the door)

  • One Kiddie Train ride (for children 48″ and under)

  • Entrance to the Aquarium Pyramid

  • Entrance to the Discovery Museum

  • One 3D film, one 4D film, and the 20,000 Leagues Interactive Theater

Adult (Ages 13–64): $55.00–$60.00

Child (Ages 4–12) / Senior (65+): $40.00–$45.00

Holiday Lights Ticket

A self-paced stroll along the iconic one-mile trail lined with over two million lights, themed music, concession stands, s’mores pits, and views of Galveston Bay.

Wheelchairs and courtesy carts may be available on a first-come, first-served basis for mobility assistance.

Adult (Ages 13–64): $24.00–$29.00

Child (Ages 4–12) / Senior (65+): $20.00–$25.00

ICE LAND Exhibit Ticket

Step inside a 9° environment featuring 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice, themed “Christmas Around the World.”
See global landmarks sculpted in ice, glide down the Giant Ice Slide, and warm up in Shiver’s Ice Bar (21+).

Parkas are provided, but guests are strongly encouraged to dress warmly.

Adult (Ages 13–64): $30.00–$35.00

Child (Ages 4–12) / Senior (65+): $24.00–$29.00

One Day Value Pass

Available only online and must be purchased before the date of visit
This is the best overall deal for guests wanting to explore Moody Gardens by day and enjoy Holiday in the Gardens in the evening.

Includes admission to:

  • Rainforest Pyramid

  • Aquarium Pyramid

  • Discovery Museum

  • MG3D Theater

  • 4D Special FX Theater

  • Audience Recognition Theater

  • Ropes & Zipline Course (weather permitting)

  • Holiday in the Gardens attractions: ICE LAND, Holiday Light Trail, Ice Rink, Arctic Slide, Kiddie Train
    (Skate rental sold separately; height/weight restrictions apply.)

Adult (Ages 13–64): $70.00 (regularly $80.00)

Child (Ages 4–12) / Senior (65+): $62.00 (regularly $70.00)

Holiday in the Gardens – What to Expect

Holiday in the Garden

Image credit: Moody Gardens

Here’s what you can look forward to during the 2025–2026 season.

ICE LAND: Christmas Around the World

November 22 – January 3
Step into one of the nation’s most spectacular winter attractions, where master carvers have sculpted 2 million pounds of ice into scenes inspired by countries around the globe. Wander past frozen replicas of landmarks from Russia, Egypt, China, and more—all celebrating how different cultures enjoy the holiday season.

After sliding down the Giant Ice Slide from the top of the Eiffel Tower, warm up with a festive beverage inside Shiver’s Ice Bar, the coldest lounge on the island.

Holiday Lights

November 22 – January 3 | 5:30–10 p.m.
The mile-long Holiday Lights trail glows with over two million lights, animated scenes, and sparkling reflections across Galveston Bay. Visitors can skate on the outdoor rink, sip hot chocolate, roast s’mores by the fire, and enjoy themed holiday buffets, all while strolling through one of Texas’s most iconic holiday walk-through experiences.

Mirage Entertainment Presents: Holiday Fantasy – North Pole’s Got Talent

December 19 – January 3 | Matinée & Dinner Shows | Moody Gardens Hotel
Walter and Holly return for a brand-new holiday showdown where the North Pole searches for its brightest star. This high-energy production blends acrobatics, aerial performers, fire dancers, and theatrical spectacle for one of the most electrifying Christmas shows of the season.

Ice Skating Rink

November 22 – January 3 | 12–10 p.m.
The outdoor skating rink is open daily beginning at noon. Evening access is included with a Holiday Lights ticket, letting you glide beneath twinkling lights for a classic winter experience, even on the Texas coast.

Holiday Hockey Skills Camp

Various dates: November 30 – December 31
Young skaters (age 16 and under) can sharpen their on-ice skills through structured hockey training that focuses on puck control, passing, shooting, skating technique, and team play. Sticks are provided, pads are recommended, and each session is capped at 20 participants.

Wednesday classes last one hour, while Sunday camps offer two hours plus a friendly scrimmage.

Kiddie Train Rides

November 22 – January 3 | 2–10 p.m.
Little ones under 48 inches can hop aboard the festive Kiddie Train for a charming ride through a lighted portion of the Holiday Lights trail, complete with music and glowing displays.

Arctic Slide

November 22 – January 3 | 12–10 p.m.
Guests over 36 inches tall can enjoy a thrilling ride down the two-story Arctic Slide. This fan-favorite attraction is included with the Holiday Evening Pass and One Day Value Pass, making it easy to enjoy multiple festive glides throughout your visit.

Holiday 3D & 4D Films

November 22 – January 3 | 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Moody Gardens’ theaters bring holiday classics and seasonal stories to life with immersive effects.
4D films include Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D and Scrooge 4D: A Christmas Carol.
3D offerings include Jerusalem 3D, Light Before Christmas 3D, and Rocky Mountain Express.

Holiday Dining

Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Moody Gardens offers festive feasts during the biggest holiday celebrations of the season. Guests can enjoy lavish brunches and dinners created by the culinary team, which is perfect for families who want to relax and let someone else handle the cooking. Visitors can also explore the Holiday in the Gardens attractions before or after their meal.

Kids Holiday Baking Class

December 14, 2025 | 12–2 p.m.
Children ages 6–11 can step into the kitchen for a hands-on holiday baking experience.

You can learn to glaze donuts, decorate cookies and cupcakes, and assemble a mini holiday cake. Each child also receives a chef jacket, apron, hat, recipe pack, decorating kit, and a snack box of their creations. Adult supervision is required, and the class may not be suitable for those with common food allergies.

Breakfast with Santa

December 13–14 & 20–23 | 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. | Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
Families can start the morning with Santa himself at this festive breakfast buffet. Guests enjoy delicious dishes, a jolly atmosphere, and the perfect opportunity to capture keepsake photos with Santa, making it a favorite tradition for many visiting families.

Parking at Moody Gardens

Parking at Moody Gardens is easy and stress-free, especially during Holiday in the Gardens. All visitors enjoy free parking, with multiple lots spread across the property to accommodate the heavy seasonal crowds.

Where to Park

You can use the Central and West Parking Lots, both conveniently located near the Visitors Center, the pyramids, the Holiday Lights trail, and the entrance to ICE LAND. These lots offer quick access to the major attractions, making it simple to move between activities throughout the day or night.

Accessible Parking

Moody Gardens provides extensive handicapped-accessible parking, available both in the surface lots and in the on-site Parking Garage. These spaces ensure that guests with disabilities can enjoy smooth, direct access to ramps, entrances, and pathways leading to the festival’s attractions.

Tips for Visiting Holiday in the Gardens

  • Dress in layers — especially for ICE LAND. The ice sculpture tent stays at around 9°F. Even though parkas are provided, wearing warm clothes (jacket, gloves, hats) makes the experience much more comfortable. 

  • Wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes. With ice, slide, and sometimes wet ground, good shoes help you stay safe — especially if you plan to skate, slide, or explore ice sculptures.

  • Buy your tickets online ahead of time. Popular nights, including weekends, holidays, or special events, fill up fast. Purchasing tickets online in advance helps secure your spot and avoid disappointment. 

  • Arrive early if you want to do multiple activities. If you plan to experience ICE LAND, the lights trail, skating, or Arctic Slide, and maybe holiday films or shows, coming early in the day or at opening gives you time for more, and avoids crowds.

  • Plan for 2–3 hours minimum. With so many attractions such as lights, ice sculptures, skating, slides, food, and shows, allow a few hours to enjoy without rushing.

  • Bring a small bag for seasonal snacks or treats. Holiday in the Gardens offers hot cocoa, s’mores kits by fire pits, and other festive foods. Having a bag or small cooler helps if you want to carry snacks or bring items back to your car. 

  • If visiting ICE LAND, use the parka provided — and keep movements slow and careful. Walking on ice or sliding can be slippery. Use the parka for warmth and hold handrails where provided.

  • Check the event calendar for themed nights before visiting. Moody Gardens often runs special nights, from dog-friendly nights to sensory-friendly evenings, which may offer discounts or tailor the experience to certain visitors. 

  • For families with kids: combine gentle and exciting activities. Plan skating or the Arctic Slide for some fun, but balance that with quieter parts like the Holiday Lights trail or a 3D/4D film, especially for younger children.

  • Use free parking. It’s included, and plenty of space is available. Moody Gardens offers no-cost on-site parking near the attractions, making arrival and departure easier. 

  • Check the weather and attraction conditions before going. Some attractions (especially the ice-related ones) may depend on weather or maintenance. It’s wise to confirm on Moody Gardens’ website so you don’t get surprised.

  • Consider a full-day or value pass if you want to enjoy more than just the evening. If you plan to explore the Rainforest Pyramid, Aquarium Pyramid, or Discovery Museum during the day and stay for Holiday in the Gardens at night, a value pass offers good overall savings.

Keep the good times going! After planning your December festivities, check out our guide to weekend events in Houston for the latest concerts, pop-ups, and nightlife happenings.

Liezel L.
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