Written By: Jaidan Slowik, Staff Writer
FESTIVAL: This year the annual Charles Dickens festival was held in White Park with a number of fun performances, activities, and old-time food!
“Back in the Victorian Age (For a Weekend)”
Charles Dickens, a famed writer from the 1800s, was known for his many great works, from David Copperfield to A Christmas Carol and, of course, Oliver Twist. His witty personality and generous nature granted him a huge following, which continued even after his passing. In 1992, the Riverside Dickens Festival was established to celebrate history, literature, and everything Victorian! The Dickens Festival is fun for all ages; there’s something for everyone, as it’s a very inclusive event. Certain recurring characters, such as Queen Victoria and her guards, make for fun conversation, and the Charles Dickens Trivia booth is famously fun. In previous years we’ve seen high schools perform choir pieces or reenactments of Charles Dickens’ works, as well as professional music groups.
“A Blast from the Past”
Dressing up is not mandatory; however, many choose to attend in fancy English attire just for the fun of it. It is also available for purchase at certain stands along with dress patterns and other custom-made accessories. You can experience pirate comedy routines and cowboy magic shows along with Victorian ballroom dancing and band performances all throughout the day. Dickens has everything Victorian and not-so-Victorian you can think of! Not to mention the food; everything from old-fashioned Shepherd’s pie and welsh cakes to Thai cuisine to a classic hot dog or pizza slice. Even though Dickens has already passed this year, it will return with plenty more exciting attractions. The location for next year is not yet known, but no matter where it is, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience for all!