Fall Gathering
Kick off the school year with faith, food, and fellowship
Friday, September 18, 2026
Join CHECH families on Galveston Island for donuts at Menard Park, then a walk over to Pleasure Pier for Homeschool Day. A relaxed start to a new school year.
Step 1
RSVP with CHECH (free)
Help us bring enough donuts. Free for everyone, members and non-members. Donuts and coffee at Menard Park starting at 9:00 AM.
Step 2
Pier tickets ($19/person)
Tickets are purchased separately through Pleasure Pier and include access to Homeschool Day educational programs. Check-in at the Pier at 10:00 AM.
Schedule of the day
Donuts at Menard Park
Meet CHECH families on the lawn. Casual, no program. Stay as long as you'd like.
Walk to the Pier
Menard Park is a five-minute walk to Pleasure Pier. Head over together or on your own.
Educational tours
Pleasure Pier offers history, math, and science tours during Homeschool Day, included with your ticket.
Lunch and rides until close
Pack a lunch or walk to Wendy's or Chick-fil-A nearby. The Pier is open until 9:00 PM.
Plan your day
A few notes to help you pack and find us
✓What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
- Water bottles
- A packed lunch (or walk to Wendy's or Chick-fil-A)
- Cash or card for snacks at the Pier
⚑Where to find us
Past fall gatherings
A look back at where we've gathered to kick off the school year
2025
Victorian Style Regency Ball at Holy Rosary
2024
Back to School Mass at UST
2023
Back to School Mass at UST
Common questions
Quick answers before you head to the coast
Do I have to be a CHECH member?
No. The donut meet-up is open to all Catholic homeschool families, and Pleasure Pier Homeschool Day is open to all homeschoolers regardless of affiliation.
Can I come to just the donuts and skip the Pier?
Yes. RSVP for donuts and stop by Menard Park whenever works for you. No commitment to the Pier required.
Can I go straight to the Pier and skip the donuts?
Yes, though we'd love to see you at Menard Park first. If you're heading straight to the Pier, no RSVP with CHECH is needed — just buy your ticket through Pleasure Pier.
What does the Pier ticket include?
$19 per person covers educational programs and a walk-on pass. All Day Ride wristbands can be added at the gate for an upcharge. Confirm current pricing on Pleasure Pier's site, since they set the rate.
What if it rains?
The donut meet-up is rain-or-shine — we'll move under the pavilion at Menard Park. Pleasure Pier rides close in lightning or high wind, but indoor spaces stay open. Check the forecast before driving down.
Is this a drop-off event?
No. This is a family event — parents stay with their children for the duration. Siblings, grandparents, and friends are all welcome.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email info@chechtx.org with any questions about the CHECH meet-up. For Pier-specific questions (tickets, rides, accessibility), contact Pleasure Pier directly at (409) 766-4950.
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Members receive early registration and discounted pricing for all CHECH events.
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