Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria never visited Galveston, but chances are they would feel right at home December 1 -2, 2007 at the 34th Dickens on the Strand.

Deemed as great family entertainment, the Dickens on the Strand festival celebrates its 34th year in the historic Strand of Galveston, Texas. Located near the Gulf of Mexico and one hour south of Houston, Victorian holiday traditions, from 19th century London, are prominent with some Texas sized amounts of good - natured fun added in to create the perfect mix for holiday fare.

History and Tradition

History is key here, especially on the Strand, once considered the “Wall Street of the Southwest.” Now a National Historical Landmark District, the 19th century commercial and residential area is festooned with evergreens and bright bows and shiny ornaments. Festival visitors, participants and vendors add to the merriment by appearing in period costumes. As their website advises – just dig deep into the back of your closet for some appropriate clothing. A costume contest occurs on Saturday for individuals and families.

Although Dickens, the author of such classics as A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield and A Tale of Two Cities, missed Galveston during his USA visit, his descendants have been frequent guests of the festival. Henry Dickens Hawksley, a great grandson, will be in attendance this year and signing copies of his famous relative’s literary works at several festival events.

Festival Highlights

Events lined up for 2007 include the following:

Saturday, December 1

English Country Breakfasts

1859 Ashton Villa Ballroom

Start off the day with a hearty meal in the grandeur of a restored antebellum’s ballroom

Fee and reservation required

Occurs both Saturday and Sunday

Snow Yard

A big hit for all children 13 years old and younger, snow falls in the typical balmy weather of the Gulf Coast. A word of advice is arrive early before all the snowmen are built or the snow melts

Occurs both Saturday and Sunday

Royal Victorian Wedding Ceremony

One of history’s greatest love stories was Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert. Now all lovers can get married for the first time or renew their vows at 12:00 noon on the Westminster Abbey stage.

Call (409) 765-7834, ext. 35.

The Queen’s Parade

Who does not love a parade? Join Victoria as she heads a throng of rugged bagpipers, richly robed choirs and a host of favorite characters from period books.

Occurs both Saturday and Sunday

London Wharf and the ELISSA

Salty old sea dogs, near the 1877 tall ship the ELISSA, greet visitors and tell them stories when the British Empire was represented on the map by hundreds of little pink bits. Pirates roam and children are allowed to join the motley crews. Also pick up entry forms for the architectural scavenger hunt, Where the ‘Dickens’ is That?

Occurs both Saturday and Sunday

Holiday Handbell Concert

St Joseph’s Church is the oldest Catholic German church in Texas. During the festival the sanctuary is alive with the ringing of bells of holiday music.

Fee and reservation required

Christmas By Candlelight

1838 Christmases featured caroling parties, and the Greek Revival Menard House is set for such a party. Guides donned in period apparel and seasonal music adds to the attraction.

Fee and reservation required

1886 Bishop's Palace Holiday Tour

A new tour – the Bishop’s Palace has the seal of approval from the American Institute of Architects as one of the 100 most outstanding buildings in the United States. The tour features the top three C’s of the holiday season – Christmas, carolers and cider.

Fee and reservation required

Dickens Holiday Ball

Waltz the night away in crinolines, bustles and dress coats as Her Majesty leads off the holiday season’s top event.

Fee and reservation required

Crachit yourself into high holiday gear and leave your Ebenezer at home.

Now is the time for celebrating - not Scrooging!