Step back in time and enjoy the holidays the old-fashioned way with Dickens’ Christmas as the merchants and Chamber of Commerce of Skaneateles give a gift to the public for their support throughout the year. Plan now and join the village of Skaneateles in the Finger Lakes of Upstate New York, where President and Mrs. Clinton vacationed, for 12 magical days of a Victorian Christmas.
The Celebration begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs every Saturday and Sunday through Christmas Eve. From noon to 4 p.m. on each of those days, Charles Dickens and his cast of characters will interact with residents and visitors in the streets, stores and restaurants. There will also be Christmas carol sing-alongs at 2 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, free carriage rides around the lakeside village, free roasted chestnuts, free hot chocolate at BSB Bank and Trust and “storytime” with Mother Goose at First National Gifts. Children can even visit with Father Christmas each weekend day from noon to 2 p.m. He will have special treats for the good children.
As the winter season approaches, gather information on Dickens’ special events. These will include the honoring of a local hero, the lighting of the BSB Bank and Trust clock tower, a combined concert by the Skaneateles and LaFayette Community Bands, and a special performance by Elizabeth Von Trapp of the “Sound of Music Von Trapps” at the First Presbyterian Church on December 16th.
Also, dancers, carolers, concerts and special events flow in and around the weekend celebrations, making for wonderful family memories. A live brass band plays every Saturday on the village streets; a bagpiper or two may be found entertaining on Sundays; and local musical groups share their many talents in that heartwarming Dickens’ spirit.
And don’t forget to visit the unique area shops that will be open throughout the Dickens’ events. Enjoy a slower paced, more enjoyable atmosphere where shopping can still be fun. Our 60 plus shops and restaurants are the perfect addition to a holiday vacation.
Make a day or a weekend of it! There is plenty to do in the area, and Skaneateles is conveniently located in Central New York on historic Route 20. We are just 25 minutes from Syracuse and an hour-and-a-half from Rochester. Visit our website, www.Skaneateles.com, or call (315) 685-0552 for more information.
by Susan Dove, Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce
