There’s always something happening on Galveston Island - but November brings a shift in rhythm. The air turns crisp, the skies deepen to a cooler blue, and the island begins its festive transformation. With the holidays on the horizon, locals and visitors alike are out enjoying the season: strolling the Strand, catching live music, and soaking up the coastal charm that makes Galveston so special this time of year. 

This month’s calendar is packed with events that celebrate both tradition and creativity. The Lone Star Rally roars into town November 6-9, followed by the Old Quarter Songwriter Festival November 13-15 and ArtWalk on November 15. As Thanksgiving approaches, the festivities continue with the 4th Annual Nutcracker Market, Holiday at Hendley Green, and the City of Galveston Tree Lighting - all happening the last weekend of the month. 

Several seasonal favorites run throughout November and into December, including The Polar Express Train Ride at the Galveston Railroad Museum, ICE LAND: Christmas Around the World and Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens, and the ever-popular Miracle Pop-Up Bar at Daiquiri Time Out. 

In this issue, we turn our attention to comfort food - specifically, soups. These nourishing, flavorful dishes are a staple of cooler weather, and Galveston’s restaurants offer a wide variety of takes. From brothy classics to creamy indulgences, we spotlight seven soul-warming soups recommended by both staff and readers. 

 Featured soups include Caldo de Res, Chicken Gumbo, Pumpkin Chili, Roasted Poblano Soup, Smoked Chicken and Dumpling Soup, Tomato Basil Soup, and Yia Yia’s Homemade Soup. We hope you’ll try a few - or better yet, all of them. 

Our November cover features a Thanksgiving-themed beach photo staged by Kathy Flanagan and Michael Pfautz. Originally from Pennsylvania, Kathy and Michael wanted to blend their love of traditional fall scenery with their passion for the beach. After experimenting with locations and arrangements, they landed on a coastal composition that marries autumn warmth with Gulf Coast serenity. The final image - captured by Michael on his cell phone - perfectly captures the spirit of the season. 

As always, thank you for reading and for being part of the Galveston Monthly community. We’re grateful for your support and proud to celebrate this island with you.