What to know for the 2023 Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson

The Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson is back for its 27th year.

Taking attendees back in time to the Victorian era and the world of the beloved author, the two-day event draws in thousands of people from across the world. The 2023 festival kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 9 a.m. and runs until 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3. 

Words from the Mayor

“This is my first Dickens Festival as Mayor, and I am thrilled that it has come together so seamlessly,” said Village of Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow. “I’m thoroughly impressed with how the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council takes hold of organizing the entire schedule of events, sponsorship relationships, and fundraising to support their organization; I’m so proud to see what organizers Allan Varela, Paul Braile and George and Karen Overin were able to accomplish this year. They’ve done an amazing job and we’re proud to support them, and this great showcase event for all to enjoy in Port Jefferson.”

GLI has rounded up some of the event’s highlights. Here’s what you should know before attending. 

• The event’s grand opening parade happens Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. on East Main Street.
• Many festival favorites returning — including ice skating at Harborfront Park and magic shows by Steve Rodman. 
• Artisan Square at Kilwins Parking Lot features skilled craftspeople demonstrating how handcrafted works were made during Victorian England.
• The Harbormaster’s building on West Broadway will house Tiny Tim’s Train Station (a spot for Toys-for-Tots donations).
• There will be a series of street plays and caroling groups, and street characters will roam about during the festival.
• Check out Theater Three’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol” at the Port Jefferson Village Center.
• Dickensian-inspired fare will be on the menus of participating restaurants, as well as Dickensian-themed options for local holiday shopping. 
• The Village Center will also be brimming with concerts and entertainment all weekend long, with shows like the “Christmas Carol Radio Show,” “Scrooge,” and the lavishly decorated “Festival of Trees,” which will be on display the whole month of December. 
• The First Methodist Chuch, Harborview Christian Church, and Greek Orthodox Church of the Assumption are holding sing-a-longs and musical and choral performances. 
• The festival will end Sunday with the Pickwick’s Giant Puppet Parade at Village Hall. 

More

To see the full event schedule, click here or visit PortJeff.com.