TUSCUMBIA-Scrooge, Marley and all the familiar faces from Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, will return to downtown Tuscumbia on December 13, 10:00 – 4:00, joining merchants and townspeople to present “It’s a Dickens Christmas, Y’all.” In its 15th year, the town’s signature holiday event adds a spirited touch to the season and brings a hint of “Merry Ole England,” to this historic Alabama town. Dickens Christmas, centered along Main Street, is free.
The Clydesdale horses, Clyde and Pride, will return to provide the ever-popular carriage rides. Costumed Victorian characters, musicians and carolers will be strolling the streets. Expect to find snow falling in the pocket park. Visit with Santa Claus in his downtown sleigh. Browse for one-of-a-kind crafted gift items under the large market tent. The shops and eateries of Tuscumbia will offer holiday specials and food trucks will be on hand.
Kick off the morning for breakfast with kids and Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer, at Superhero Chef’s restaurant… or choose to visit with the Ghost of Marley and all the Dickens Ghosts at “Scones and Moans” in Market on Main. Then throughout the day, festival goers may enjoy a Trolley Tour through the historic district, “Poetry and Music” at St. John’s Episcopal Church, and “A Holiday Tea” at the historic Winston Home at Deshler High School (advance tickets required). Events appealing to the younger set include cookie decorating at the law office of Denise Green and “Milk and Cookies with Tiny Tim”, including a reading of A Christmas Carol, at Emily Cooper Gallery. Visit Helen Keller Library where you may make your own Victorian Christmas Ornament. Dress in “Dickens Style” to join the fun or simply bundle up and “come as you are.” (Please refer to the Dickens schedule for detailed timings.)
According to Sherry Campbell, chair of the event, “New to last year’s schedule was a story-telling event entitled “No Humbug! The Surprising True Story Behind the Creation of A Christmas Carol”, presented by popular storyteller Delores Hydock. It was such a hit, with a sold-out audience, that we are bringing her back this year! Hydock is well-known across the state for her engaging, theatrical delivery of her chosen tales. An added feature is the staging of her performance in the newly refurbished Tuscumbia Utility Building. Many people will remember when this event center was once the heart of gatherings in the town. With its curtained stage set in the style of Charles Dickens’ England, his tale as presented by Hydock will indeed come alive!” Campbell suggests the early purchase of advance tickets to this event due to Hydock’s popularity.
Campbell also suggests additional attractions which visitors should plan to visit when in Tuscumbia for Dickens Christmas: Helen Keller’s home, Ivy Green, and Belle Mont Mansion will be decorated in traditional Christmas style. The Tennessee Valley Museum of Art will be hosting its Winter Art Market of locally created arts and crafts for sale. Beginning at dusk each evening, enjoy a holiday-themed water show amid the festive lights of downtown’s Spring Park.
Dickens Christmas is sponsored by Tuscumbia Retail Development, a volunteer group dedicated to building the business
community with promotions and public events. May Woodie Christopher, president, said “TRD is indebted to many participating groups and to the numerous sponsors and supporters who make this family-friendly holiday event possible. There are so many volunteers and groups involved, making ‘It’s a Dickens Christmas, Y’all’ festive and fun for everyone! We invite you to make it part of your annual holiday tradition!”
The street festival is free, as are many of the events. Some special events require a nominal charge, advance tickets, or donations are accepted to offset costs. For more information and the complete schedule call TRD / Fiddledee D! at 256-383-9797 or Colbert County Tourism at 256-383-0783. Follow on Facebook: 15th Annual It’s A Dickens Christmas Y’all.
