For the 6th year in a row, I had the opportunity to attend the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco. It has been a tradition for us to attend everyday on the first weekend of December to help us get into the Christmas spirit. For those that are unaware of the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, it’s basically a fair set in Victorian London. The moment you step through the entrance, your senses are delightfully filled with smells of roasting chestnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. There are Christmas decorations on every surface and storefront.
As you enter the fair, you’re treated to a gorgeously decorated Christmas Tree. To your left is the dance hall where you can either enjoy the show on the sidelines or you can join in and ask someone for a dance.
As you step further in, you find yourself in at the Grand Concourse. Here you have sellers and creators from all over the country here to sell goods that they have made with their own hands. You can find items such as homemade candles, wooden cups, pewter cups, jewelry boxes, and so much more.
If you go to the fair unprepared, you’ll find yourself sticking out a bit like a sore thumb because of how underdressed you are. Almost everyone attending has dressed from head to toe with Victorian era clothing. The dresses are beautiful and takes quite a bit of time to take it all in. If you decide not to dress, do not worry. The actors and employees there are very kind and encouraging regardless of what you decide to wear.
As you turn the corner and explore the streets of Victorian London, you’ll also run into a few holiday carolers that will grace your ears with amazing holiday songs.
The top reason I come back every year has to be the food. You can’t ignore it. The smell just fills the air where ever you go. Some of my favorite’s are Mr. Barker’s Bangers and Mash, Yorkshire pudding, roasted chestnuts, and shepherd’s pie.
I highly suggest everyone to go to the Dickens Christmas Fair at least once in their life. It’s such a fun event and a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. This is a great place to attend with children since they are very child friendly and also to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You’ll find yourself putting your phone away and really immersing yourself in an era. If you’re interested, there are still tickets available for 2014. I hope everyone is having an amazing December and for those that have attended the fair this year or years before let me know how your experience was!
