This Saturday, hundreds of people dressed in Victorian garb are expected to return to Covington’s Historic Court Square as the Dickens Christmas event returns.
Organized by the Downtown Merchants Association, the event is based on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and will feature characters from the beloved story milling about with the guests.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday.
Shop at the marketplace
The Dickens Christmas Market will take place at Gateway on the Square, 101 Court Square West, and the former Past Times Antiques building, on the corner of Pleasant and Main, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday.
Hear live music and visit Father Christmas
Many different activities are planned for the event.
Father Christmas will be visiting from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday.
There will be live music and carolers throughout both days.
On Saturday, Clopton Line Dancers will perform at 2 p.m. on the west side of the square and the Dream Coach Voice Studio will perform from 2-3 p.m. on the east side of the square in front of the courthouse.
On Sunday, Devoted Youth gospel singers will perform inside Gateway on the Square at 1 p.m. and TCCA Line Dancers will perform at 2 p.m.
Make time for tea
Interested in having high tea? Old Town Hall cafe will be offering the experience Sunday from 2-4 p.m. The cost is $12 for a three-tea course with the option of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
Take a carriage ride through historic Covington
Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available at the south entrance to the courthouse from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday.
The traditional reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” will take place in the chamber office on the hour from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday and 2-5 p.m. Sunday.
Attend the tree lighting
The annual event also features a tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. on Saturday. The tree is located on the southeast corner of the courthouse lawn.
Community members are asked to bring a homemade ornament to decorate the tree and to meet at 6:15 to join with the Community Chorus to sing Christmas Carols. The group, and families gathered around, will sing “O Christmas Tree” once the tree has been lit.
Author: Echo Day
Echo Day is an award-winning journalist, photographer and designer. She is currently The Leader's managing editor.
