Dickens Christmas Festival: Step back in time at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Step back in time at The Dickens Christmas Festival in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Father Christmas and Miss Chief having fun on board HMS Warrior 1860 at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard's Festival of Christmas.  Picture: Chris Stephens.Father Christmas and Miss Chief having fun on board HMS Warrior 1860 at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard's Festival of Christmas.  Picture: Chris Stephens.
Father Christmas and Miss Chief having fun on board HMS Warrior 1860 at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard's Festival of Christmas. Picture: Chris Stephens.

This year, the dockyard is celebrating Charles Dickens, born in the city and seen by some as the father of the modern Christmas.

Explore snowy Dickensian streets and meet characters from Mr. Dickens' most famous novels including Oliver Twist, The Old Curiosity Shop, Great Expectations, David Copperfield and A Christmas Carol. You might even spot the legendary

author himself wandering around the festival.

As well as the return of the amazing street markets at The Dickens Festival of Christmas, 2018 sees the introduction of the Hampshire Makers' Market - a celebration of local handmade talent.

Take the chance to browse the works from a host of different artisans from around the county '“ perfect to fill stockings and buy gifts!

Looking for a place to relax? Fagin's Tavern in the Spiegeltent is back and bigger than ever before. A staple of the festival, Fagin's welcomes visitors for a tipple or two, plus incredible musical entertainment throughout the day.

Brand new for 2018 is the Gin & Prosecco Parlour, serving a selection of gins and fizz. Charles Dickens himself was said to have been a fan of gin, so make sure you raise a glass to toast the man of the hour.

See if you can spot The Living Snow Globe '“ she loves being the centre of attention. Can you try and get a picture with her? Try and make her smile - it won't be easy! And keep out of the way of grumpy Scrooge '“ he doesn't seem to share our festive cheer!

Back by popular demand is the character parade, so make sure you stick around to watch as all the characters get together at the end of each day.

And, of course, no Christmas festival would be complete without Father Christmas. Dressed in his traditional green robes, this year he is spreading festive cheer for all to hear with his reindeer and Miss Chief the Elf.

The Dickens Christmas Festival runs from 30 November - 2 December from 10am '“ 6pm.  For more information and to buy tickets, go to christmasfestival.co.uk

 

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