The 9th annual Dickens Village Festival was another booming success! The streets of Carlyle were bustling with locals and visitors, all excited to take part in the fun-filled weekend.
Many new faces filled the town of Carlyle, with people from as far as Newfoundland travelling to experience the Dickens Village Festival. "We actually met some ladies from Newfoundland who planned their holiday to see their sister in Regina so they could attend Dickens for the night," commented Shelly Slykhuis, who also mentioned, "vendors were happy with their sales, and there were lots of compliments about the décor."
The streets looked great as businesses decorated their storefronts in theme, and the lanterns were up on Main Street, adorning the streetlights on the boulevard. The committee really appreciated all those who took the time and effort to decorate their homes and business in the Dickens Village Festival spirit!
The sun shone and the weather stayed nice, making the festivities even more enjoyable. Stores were packed as people cashed in on some great shopping opportunities and the street vendors were busy each night, with lines at each stand as people eagerly awaited the tasty treats the vendors offered, such as rice pudding, chili, smokies-on-a-stick, and more.
Adults and children anxiously waited for their turn for a ride on the carriage pulled by two magnificent black horses. The High Tea was very successful; with Friday being the best attendance the Dickens' High Tea has ever seen.
The English Market hosted all sorts of artisans, including author Marie Calder, who was present selling her book series, the Other Side. The English Market was constantly crowded as people chatted with the craftsmen and women, discovered intriguing wares, and made exciting purchases.
Fezziwig's pub was consistently busy throughout the weekend, with all sorts of entertainment, food, and drinks. Many children eagerly waited to see Pat Roth, the magician, lining up afterwards to receive their balloon toy. The evenings were just as busy with talented musicians entertaining the crowd as they enjoyed a drink or two.
Fezziwig's held a lunch each day, both of which were popular. Rusty Relics Museum volunteers served up soup and sandwiches on Friday, while Saturday featured a beef stew lunch.
Many businesses participated in Tiny Tim's Taste Tour, offering an array of delicious treats, from stuffed mushrooms and gingerbread cookies to hot cider and cheesecake.
The Cornerstone Theatre's play delivered an outstanding performance of their play, "A Christmas Carol - Remixed." Entertaining, witty, and captivating, the sold-out play lived up to expectations, and the reputable Cornerstone Theatre did not disappoint.
Breakfast with Santa, which was held Saturday morning by the Carlyle RCMP, seen an even better turnout than last years'. More than 200 people were served between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., and three shopping carts full of groceries were collected to donate to the food bank as well as just over 450-dollars in cash donations. Nearly all of the RCMP members and staff were present at the event to cook and serve.
Next year's Dickens Village Festival will see its 10th anniversary, and come February, Charles Dickens will be 200-years-old. The Dickens Village Festival Committee is always working hard to improve the festival and highly encourages your input. To give your much appreciated comments, suggestions, and ideas, e-mail the Town of Carlyle or Shelly Slykhuis at [email protected].
