The Dickens on the Strand Festival will be returning to Galveston for its 51st year, resurrecting the feel and traditions of the 19th century.
Named after the author of A Christmas Carol and many other classic Victorian stories, the festival is hosted by the Galveston Historical Foundation. The festival grounds are divided into areas, including Tiny Tim’s Play Land for younger visitors and Shopkeeper Skills Villages, featuring local vendors and artisans. There will also be parades and travelling vendors and actors in period garb travelling throughout the festival. Items available include holiday food and drink, classical crafts, decorations, and more.
Dickens on the Strand will also feature four stages full of entertainment, including live music and other performers. Entertainers and vendors are selected through an online application process. Admission will be free to the public during the evening on December 6, also known as Fezziwig’s Friday, and attendees in Victorian costumes can receive half-price tickets. The festival grounds also feature a Buckingham Palace VIP area with special programming, photo opportunities, and limited-edition souvenirs. Historic festivals like this often use tools like banner printing and period music to help transport visitors to times gone by.
The 2024 edition of Dickens on the Strand will take place from December 6 to 8 at the Strand Historic District in Galveston, which is already home to many Victorian-era buildings.
