Dickens 2008 Schedule [DOC]

Are you looking for a getaway weekend that will rekindle the oldfashioned Christmas spirit? Then plan to join us in Wellsboro on Saturday, December 5 as we take a step back in time and celebrate the community's 26th annual "Dickens of a Christmas". Wellsboro's Main Street and the surrounding side streets will be closed to traffic and will become an early Victorian marketplace featuring all types of delectable wares for eating and drinking, as well as delightful gift items for wearing or enjoying.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m., the food and craft vendors, strolling musicians and singers, dancers, and street-corner thespians will spread up and down Main Street, extending onto Waln and Crafton Street, and a portion of Central Avenue. Performers and vendors will be appropriately costumed and decorated to create a Victorian atmosphere that fits so well with the Wellsboro Gas Lights. With streets closed to traffic, you have the freedom to stroll and enjoy the festivities.

As you stroll about, it's not uncommon to stumble upon a little match girl, or even old Scrooge himself! The Dickens Players... "a diverse-but-talented assortment of amateur strolling performers" will once again be on hand to entertain and delight shoppers with their renditions of Christmas readings and carols. The group will move indoors for a performance at the Gmeiner Art Center at 12:30 p.m.

The Wellsboro Men's and Women's Choruses traditionally perform in front of the Arcadia Theater, and you're welcome to sing along. Several other local musical groups typically offer strolling performances throughout the day. Just stop where you happen to be and enjoy tidbits of drama or musical performances.

Many of our local churches will host luncheons, concerts, tours or special services throughout the day. Hamilton Gibson Productions will present "A Christmas Carol" at the Arcadia Theater several times, and the Hamilton Gibson Choirs will perform on Friday evening. Tickets may be purchased at the door.

Last year, over 175 craft and food vendors lined the streets dressed in Victorian garb to present many unique gift-giving options which included hand-crafted Christmas ornaments, wooden toys, jewelry, quilted items, furniture, wrought iron, homemade cheese & meats, pet treats, heirloom Santas, stuffed animals and dolls for the children on your list. In addition, several indoor craft shows are held at the United Methodist Church, the Wellsboro Senior Center, and the Firemen's Annex. For a lasting memory, you can have your picture taken at the Arcadia Theatre.

Numerous food vendors are always on hand to warm your tummies and tickle your tastebuds with such delectable delights as hot chocolate, chili, hot dogs, homemade soups and chowders, bread pudding, homemade cookies, pies and candies, hot beef sandwiches, crab cakes, fresh roasted peanuts, hot cider and coffee, cheddar wursts, kettle corn, baked potatoes, and apple dumplings...just to name a few.

Bring a candle and join us for the Peace Walk from Packer Park at 5:00 p.m., which travels up Main Street to the Green for the annual community Christmas tree lighting and carol sing at 5:30.  The 2009 PA State Laurel Queen will be on hand to light the giant Christmas tree, and Santa always visits with special treats for the youngsters.

Parking will be available at several lots throughout the town, along with a shuttle which will be operated continuously from the Wellsboro High School parking lot and the Wellsboro Plaza lot on Route 6.

It's always a wonderful way to start your holiday season! For a detailed schedule of events with times and locations or contact the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce, 114 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901, phone 570-724- 1926. The schedule will also be available at local businesses, motels and restaurants the day of the event.

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