The Holiday Lighting Celebration begins with the arrival of Santa Claus by horse-drawn carriage, followed by the lighting of the hotel's 35-foot Christmas tree on the front lawn.

KHOU Ch. 11's Lily Jang will emcee the evening as guests are entertained by the Galveston Ballet, Galveston College Community Chorale, Moody Festival Ringers and "The Island Piper" Clyde Wood. Dickens on The Strand's Queen Victoria, Galveston Mayor Pro-Tem Rusty Legg and the Nesquik Bunny from Nestle Toll House Café will also make special appearances during the festivities.

Additionally, children can have photos taken with Santa and receive a small gift. Inside the hotel, chef Antonio Rodriguez invites guests to see the hotel's gingerbread display.