This Small Town Brings 'A Christmas Carol' to Life Every December and the Photos Are Magical
The village of Skaneateles brings A Christmas Carol to life in its 23rd annual celebration.
An Annual Tradition
The Dickens Christmas festival in Skaneateles, New York starts on the day after Thanksgiving and continues every weekend leading up to Christmas.
The Street's a Stage
Fifty actors from local theatre group Scarlett Rat Entertainment play the part of various characters from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, including Ebenezer Scrooge, the ghost of Jacob Marley (pictured), and Father Christmas.
Revel Yell
Each day's activities begin at noon with the Town Revel, when all of the characters gather around to sing Christmas carols.
Bah Humbug!
Ebenezer Scrooge roams the streets scowling at unsuspecting passersby.
Charles Dickens
The Victorian author stands ready to read select passages from his manuscript.
Christmas Personified
Father Christmas, a season-embodying character made popular by the English in the late Victorian period, awaits visitors on the porch of the Masonic Temple.
Story Time
At the town's lakefront gazebo, "Charles Dickens" and crew reenact Carol scenes with the help of volunteers from the audience.
Performance Art
Dickensian characters perform "interactive street theatre," remaining in character as they converse with onlookers.
Historical Accuracy
Supporting cast members take on appropriately Victorian personalities. Here, a temperance movement "activist" warns of the dangers of consuming alcohol.
Leading Ladies
Another temperance supporter carries a sign that reads, "Lips that touch liquor will never touch mine!"
Sacred Spirits
The Ghost of Christmas Present (center), described as a "jolly giant" in Dickens' tale, and the Ghost of Christmas Past (right).
Out for a Stroll
Just two Victorian ladies on their way to pay a call to neighbors...
A Classic Landmark
The Sherwood Inn, built in 1807, serves as the homebase for many of the festival's activities, including the kickoff of the "World's Smallest Christmas Parade" on Black Friday.
Snow Angels
The snowy conditions that are common in the Finger Lakes region during this time of the year make for a scenic backdrop for the festival.
You Might Also Like
Solve the daily Crossword
