Events in Kemah

Situated on the picturesque shores of Galveston Bay, Kemah offers year-round excitement. With a variety of attractions, special events, and a vibrant live entertainment scene, there's always something to see and do in this charming coastal town.

Mardi Gras
Kemah's Mardi Gras celebration is vibrant and festive, capturing the spirit of the traditional New Orleans festival with its own unique coastal twist. From floats to boats, Mardi Gras is a special time in Kemah.

Krewes Into Kemah Mardi Gras Parade
Enjoy brightly colored floats (including a pirate ship), live music, and costumed participants throwing beads and other trinkets as they pass through the streets of the city’s Lighthouse District. This parade is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Yachty Gras Boat Parade
A Kemah tradition since 1999, the Yachty Gras Boat Parade is said to be America’s largest Mardi Gras boat parade. This family-friendly event features decorated boats with enthusiastic "krewes" tossing beads and trinkets to visitors lining the Kemah Boardwalk.

June

Texas Outlaw Challenge
The Texas Outlaw Challenge is an annual performance boat race held in Kemah and other locations around Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. This multi-day event kicks off with the Stampede Street Party, showcasing extreme racing boats, saloons, bars, live bands, and vendors in the Kemah Lighthouse District.

Firework Fridays
Enjoy a star-spangled summer every Friday with live music and spectacular fireworks over Galveston Bay. Admission is free, making it a perfect family outing

July

4th of July Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day in Kemah with a patriotic parade, face painting, children's activities, live music, and fireworks over Galveston Bay. This family-friendly event is filled with fun and excitement for all ages, making it a memorable way to mark the holiday

August

Tidewater Boats Elite Fishing Series – Kemah Klash
The popular Discovery Channel series comes to Kemah for the Kemah Klash, featuring three days of redfish tournaments. The event includes a pro-am tournament, a kayak tournament, EFS qualifying rounds, and Championship Saturday.

Rock the Dock - Every Thursday night in the summer
Summertime in Kemah means live music, and the Kemah Boardwalk brings excitement with free concerts every Thursday night. It's the perfect way to enjoy a hot summer evening.

Christmas in Kemah
Kemah is the perfect place to make Christmas memories. Whether it's Jingle on the Boardwalk, the nighttime Christmas Boat Parade, Pancakes with Santa, or the City of Kemah’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, there is plenty of holiday fun for everyone. The Boardwalk is even open on Christmas Day. Additionally, make New Year’s Eve a family event with a special kids’ countdown celebration and fireworks.

Key Events:

• Jingle on the Boardwalk: Enjoy festive activities and holiday shopping.
• Christmas Boat Parade: A dazzling parade of decorated boats.
• Pancakes with Santa: A delightful breakfast event for families.
• Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: A heartwarming community event.
• Lighthouse District Christmas Market: Wrap up your holiday shopping with a variety of craft vendors.
• New Year’s Eve Celebration: Special kids’ countdown and fireworks to ring in the new year.

Kemah offers a unique blend of coastal charm, festive celebrations, and year-round entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.