Thinking about going next Saturday, trying to get a hotel but they are pretty damn pricey, not a shock will probably stay at the Hilton on the Seawall. Me and the wife went about 7 years ago and have been meaning to go back. Any recommendations? Yeah I know, it's not Orleans but this is just a quick 1 day trip for us, something to do Saturday.
I can only speak for the parades down the sea wall, but those are very kid friendly, especially during the day. The fam is going to the noon parade tomorrow like we did last year. The kids love it
The first weekend is typically considered the family weekend, I wouldn't recommend bringing kids the second weekend, especially if you are primarily going to be on the Strand. Last night was pretty calm and the crowd was not large at all. Tonight should be a bit more crowded. Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it out. It's not N.O. but it's still a great time.
It's relatively safe for kids during the day but there are drunks staggering around and the occasional boob shot.
If with kids, stick to seawall/25th street (by pleasure pier) for parade watching. If adults-only, go downtown and drink it up.... enjoy walking around with open containers too, and not having to drive on a freeway to go from street fest to bar to restaurant to nightlife.
Thinking of maybe a bit of a 'staycation' . . . maybe grab a hotel and see some sights Going with the wife so . . . no need to be the singles tatas scene Rocket River
If you want to grab a hotel do it now. there are two parades. One for the kids on the sea wall and the one in the historic district. Want to party go to the Historic district. It's like NOLA Mardi Gras turned down to 4. Easy to walk around and a great way to people watch. It's not hard to get out of Galveston after if you leave before midnight. I think a lot of the fun depends on the weather. If it rains while being cold it will suck but it doesn't then it will be fun. If you want to do balcony parties or get tickets to get into the historic district here http://www.mardigrasgalveston.com/tickets/ You'll get charged like $10 extra if you buy your tickets there.