Dickens-On-The-Strand Galveston
Roberta and Neal Thornton and their daughter-in-law Leigha Thornton at a past Dickens.
The 50th anniversary of Galveston Historical Foundation’s Dickens-On-The-Strand will be the first weekend in December for three days of the sights and sounds of Charles Dickens’ work, surrounded by the island’s unmatched Victorian-era architecture. This annual festival begins Friday, Dec. 1, with free admission to Fezziwig’s Beer Hall from 5-9 p.m. and continues with the ticketed entry on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 3, from noon to 6 p.m.
Based on 19th-century Victorian London, the annual holiday, the largest annual GHF fundraiser, features parades, non-stop entertainment on multiple stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, jugglers and other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling cars laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations and gift items.
This year, nine descendants of Charles Dickens will come across the ocean to host special events, appearing at meet and greets, signings and appearances throughout the festival all weekend.
Beverly Davis of Liberty is a long-time member of the GHF Events Committee. She will once again be chairman of the Information Booth on 23rd and Mechanic on Saturday, Dec. 2. Volunteering with her at the booth are Roberta and Neal Thornton, plus Desi Newman of Liberty, Stephani Flowers of Hardin, Juanita Snapp of Trinity, Fran Card, Debra and Harold McCracken of Galveston, Ronny Lambert and Daniel Loera of Friendswood, plus Gerald Maxwell of Cypress.
Tickets purchased at the gate are $25 for adults and $18 for youth. Attendees in Victorian costumes receive 50% off entry. Tickets are available online at www.dickensonthestrand.org. For more information about Dickens and all the various activities and events, go to www.galvetonhistory.org or call 409-765-7834 or contact Will Wright, Chief Creative Officer, at will.wright@galvestonhistory.org.
“This 50th anniversary of Dickens-On-The-Strand is a milestone in many ways. It represents years of commitment to developing and maintaining a top-rated festival that brings thousands to our island during the holiday season. In the mid-1970s, GHF leaders and volunteers wondered if we could ever see the renaissance of the Stran Mechanic National Historic Landmark District. We questioned if tourists and locals would see the historic area as a place to walk, shop and dine,” states GHF Executive Director Dwayne Jones. “Without any doubt, the Dickens event and its impressive number of visitors have helped build the credibility of the Strand and contributed to its revitalization. GHF began our work in the area long before others came onboard. Our staff and board brought a vision that led the earliest development, and the Dickens event is a key part of our ongoing vision.”
Come and enjoy the festival … check out the new events and the past favorites at the GHF website. Also, volunteers are still needed.