Galveston Wharves announces 200th anniversary plans

The Galveston Wharves is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year with three big events in October, all hosted by the port and funded by bicentennial sponsors, including presenting sponsors Carnival Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group; and Callan Marine.

Events include a free Party on the Pier presented by Royal Caribbean Friday, Oct. 17, at Pier 21 and the 200th Anniversary Gala presented by Carnival Cruise Line, with entertainment presented by Callan Marine, Saturday, Oct. 18, at Galveston Island Convention Center.

The Galveston Wharves is also publishing a 140-page, hardcover book in collaboration with Galveston Historical Foundation. Filled with rare historical images, the commemorative, limited-edition book recounts the Port of Galveston’s fascinating history of pirates, naval battles, riches, and resilience.

Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, said, “Thanks to the generous support of our anniversary sponsors, we’re celebrating our 200th birthday and recognizing our many port partners in a big way, with net proceeds funding maritime scholarships at Texas A&M University at Galveston.”

The port kicked off its bicentennial celebration on May 22 with its annual National Maritime Day event presented by Wallenius Wilhelmsen, with vessel tours, including a U.S. Coast Guard cutter, and a ceremony at Pier 21. More than 300 people, including dignitaries, student groups and port partners, attended the free event.

The celebration continues the weekend of Oct. 17, the official 200th anniversary date of the port’s founding, with the following:

• Friday, Oct. 17 – Party on the Pier, a free public event presented by Royal Caribbean, with dance bands, a drone show over Galveston Harbor, and family activities, 5:30-10 p.m. at Pier 21, 2100 Harborside Dr.

• Saturday, Oct. 18 – Carnival Cruise Line is presenting the 200th Anniversary Gala beginning at 6 p.m. at the Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd., with a 10-piece dance band presented by Callan Marine. Sponsor tables are available now, with individual seats available Aug. 11.
• October – The Galveston Wharves will release its 140-page, hardcover history book covering the port’s 200-year history and spotlighting its bicentennial sponsors.