The Riverside Dickens Festival will return next month, but at a new venue, featuring a range of entertainment that will convert a public space in downtown Riverside into Victorian-era London, reflective of author Charles Dickens’ life and times.
The 32nd annual event will be presented Saturday, Feb. 22, and Sunday, Feb. 23, in White Park, at the intersection of Chestnut and 10th streets.
“Step back in time and join us for a magical journey to the Victorian era at the Riverside Dickens Festival,” it states on DickensFest.com.
“Enjoy immersive historical re-enactments, captivating performances, literary discussions and interactive workshops that celebrate Victorian life here and in England,” the website states. “This event promises fun and educational experiences for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families, friends and literature enthusiasts alike.”
Last February, the hosting venue was the Jensen Alvarado Historic Ranch & Museum, near Flabob Airport, in neighboring Jurupa Valley. The decision to relocate the event from its traditional place along the Main Street pedestrian mall, between Mission Inn Avenue and 11th Street, in Riverside was cost-driven.
Organizers said setting up security barriers and cordoning off streets required paying ever-escalating municipal fees that the festival couldn’t afford. The ranch and museum, part of the Riverside County Park & Open Space District, offered a more economical option.
This year’s event requires tickets for admission, which can be purchased online by clicking here.
The schedule for Saturday, Feb. 22, and Sunday, Feb. 23, has yet to be confirmed, but the event has consistently featured an “Authors’ Salon,” with the works of Jane Austen, Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde, Sir Richard Burton and others read aloud. There are routinely parades, live music and who-dun-it mysteries to solve.
Toward the end of each day, there are also “Knighting Ceremonies” presided over by Queen Victoria and her royal retinue. Merchants sell food and wares reminiscent of a 19th century London bazaar, interspersed with caroling and dancing.
The fest was nearly nixed completely in February 2021 amid the COVID-19 lockdowns, but organizers managed to throw together a virtual presentation featuring profiles of Dickens’ stories and other fare online.
In-person activities returned in February 2022.
For more information, click here.
