Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival 2023

Step back in time and start the festive season in Dickensian style.

Step back in time and start the festive season in Dickensian style at the popular Rochester Dickensian Christmas festival taking place on Saturday, 2 and Sunday, 3 December.

Each year, the first weekend of December brings Victorian festivities to Rochester in the form of a Dickensian Christmas, where you can experience street entertainment, readings, song and dance.

You’ll be captivated by Dickens’ characters as you explore the literary journey that was the great writer’s life.

A full programme of colourful and lively events will be published nearer the time.

Festival Parades:
11am - Seven Poor Travellers' Procession
Led from outside the Victoria & Bull Hotel, the procession will move along the high street and conclude outside the Six Poor Travellers' House, where a short speech will be made.

12Noon - Main Parade
Led by the Mayor of Medway, the parade of costume characters and performers will start in the high street by Almon Place. It will move along the high street, turn left at Northgate into Boley Hill and finishing on the Boley Hill Stage.

4.45pm - Candlelit Parade
Led by the Mayor of Medway, the parade will start in the high street by Almon Place. It will move along the high street and turn left into Boley Hill to join the carol service on the open air stage.