A First-Timer’s Guide to the Victorian Festival of Christmas
Posted in The UK on 03. Nov, 2011
‘Tis the season for snow, Santa—and, if you are in Europe, a variety of Christmas Markets! Among the many festivals and markets on the continent, one stands out for being truly special: the Victorian Festival of Christmas at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth, England. The largest city in Hampshire and the only island city in the UK, Portsmouth is a great tourist destination year-round. However, at Christmastime is when it really comes alive.
Now in its twelfth year, Portsmouth’s Victorian Festival of Christmas is set to return. It will take place from Friday, November 25th to Sunday, November 27th, 2011—fairly early in the year for a Christmas festival. From 10AM to 6PM on those days, visitors will be magically transformed back in time—to a bygone era brimming with Dickensian-style charm. The snowy streets surrounding the Historic Dockyard will feature gift shops, seasonal carols, and festive activities. Fagin’s Tavern will prove once again to be a great gathering place, and a traditional Santa will roam the streets, bearing gifts.
Appealing to the young and the young at heart, the Victorian Festival of Christmas is a beloved tradition. The family-friendly event offers a great way to celebrate the season, and even introduce your children to the local heritage. Along with Santa Claus, your little ones may meet Mother and Father Christmas and their four-legged companions, Bubble and Squeak. Do not miss the chance to take a photograph aboard the sleigh, flanked by the baby reindeers themselves.
Another highlight of this year’s festival will be the return of Hampshire Fare, the award-winning company dedicated to showcasing the local food and drink of the region. There will be a Cookery Demonstration Theatre, where you may see how traditional Victorian recipes were prepared. Shop for culinary souvenirs amid the heady aromas of steaming mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
From Victorian dancing to over 140 merchant stalls selling crafts and treats, there is something for everyone at this annual festival. Live entertainment will be provided by the Showman’s Engine, the requisite drummers and pipers, and a whole host of colourful characters—all dressed in full Victorian costume, of course
To purchase tickets to the Victorian Festival of Christmas, visit www.christmasfestival.co.uk or call 023 9283 9766. And to find great rates at hotels in Portsmouth, look no further than www.eurobookings.com!
