Main Street Chestertown’s fourth annual Dickens of a Christmas weekend, December 3 through 5 in the historic downtown district, promises non-stop entertainment, authentic British foods, hand-crafted gifts, and a Victorian streetscape to transport visitors back to 1840’s London. The weekend kicks off December 3 at 5:00 p.m. with a fabulous First Friday celebration. Chestertown’s shops and businesses will stay open late to welcome visitors. Horse-drawn carriages will carry guests past 18th and 19th century homes, and fire pits will help keep everyone warm for a night of entertainment that includes North America’s Celtic Band the American Rogues, beer and mulled wine, and food from local vendors.
The festivities continue on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. with the “London Row” artisans tent with a wide variety of hand-crafted seasonal and Victorian themed gifts and treats. Food vendors will offer traditional and seasonal fare, from Fish & Chips and Scotch Eggs to oysters. In addition to festival headline act The American Rogues, the Music Stage will feature regional acts. Street performers include the Wheelmen Antique Bicycle Club, Phydeaux’s Flying Fleas, Big Whimsy Stilt Walkers, and Dickens inspired actors. Rumor has it that Queen Victoria herself will make an appearance. Kids will delight at the pony rides and petting zoo, and be able to talk to Santa.
Sunday kicks off bright and early with the “Run/Walk Like the Dickens” 5K race. Costumes are encouraged! Register at mainstreetchestertown.org. Dickens of a Christmas is a production of Main Street Chestertown, whose mission is to foster an inviting, diverse and prosperous downtown. Main Street’s vision for Chestertown is a welcoming and vibrant waterfront community where people of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to live, work, shop and enjoy recreational and cultural activities in a beautiful setting.
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