The town of Carlyle has been transformed into a festive wonderland this weekend as it hosts the annual Carlyle Dickens Festival, the only event of its kind in Canada and ranked among the top five worldwide.
Kicking things off this morning and running through the weekend, the festival promises an array of activities and entertainment to delight visitors of all ages. “We have a whole bunch of free entertainment all weekend long,” said Dawn Faber, a member of the festival committee.
The heart of the festival is at the Carlyle Memorial Hall, where free entertainment runs from Friday at 11:45 a.m. until 1:00 a.m. The schedule repeats Saturday, starting at 10:00 a.m. “It’s a huge event,” Faber explained. “We also have a play called It’s a Wonderful Hockey Life with performances Friday night, Saturday night, and a Sunday matinee.”
The festival’s theatrical production is also a fresh take. “This year, the play is based on It’s a Wonderful Life, but we’ve titled it It’s a Wonderful Hockey Life. I think all the actors are excited to be doing something new,” Faber added.
For those seeking other family-friendly fun, Al Simmons, a children’s performer, will be part of the entertainment lineup. “We’re giving tickets away free for that as well. Everything is free at the hall,” Faber said.
In addition to the entertainment, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and a festive parade on both Friday and Saturday evenings at 6:00 p.m. Street food vendors will be set up from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday.
A high tea at the United Church will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, featuring quilt decorations, Christmas trees, and a variety of hats. “It’s $20 for that, and it’s a beautiful environment,” Faber noted.
This year’s festival introduces some exciting new additions. “We’re also doing a thing called open mic, where people can come and test their talents,” Faber said. “We’re also doing a couple of dance parties, like fiddling dance parties in the hall, which I think will draw a lot of people. One of our businesses this year too is doing pet photos, so that’s also new.”
As part of the holiday cheer, residents and businesses in Carlyle have participated in a Christmas decorating contest. “Lots of our places are all twinkling,” Faber said. “The town looks beautiful.”
For those planning to visit, a detailed schedule and map can be found on the Town of Carlyle website or the Dickens Festival Facebook page.
“There’s just tons of stuff to take in,” Faber emphasized. “You won’t regret it. Come and check it out. It’s the only Dickens festival in Canada, and it’s the 5th best-rated one in the world.”
The Carlyle Dickens Festival promises to offer a magical and memorable experience for the whole family. Whether you’re attending the parade, enjoying the free entertainment, or soaking in the town’s festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.