ST. GEORGE– A family tradition continues as the 2011 Dicken’s Christmas Festival opening in St. George today at the Dixie Convention Center, 1835 Convention Center Drive.
A tradition that began in Salt Lake City 30 years ago brings thousands back each year as the original creators moved the tradition to St. George about 10 years ago.
The doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. through Dec. 3.
“It is a great Christmas shopping show, and I have people come from all over come to do their shopping,” Exhibit Director Melissa Dalley said.
What can a first-time Dicken’s Christmas Festival attendant expect?
The event showcases 165-200 exhibitor booths ranging from arts and crafts for kids, great food, and authentic brass rubbings dating back to the 1800’s.
Also, a 45 minute mini-version of Scrooge will be shown Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on the main stage. Oliver will be shown on Saturday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Both plays are included in the price of admission, which is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and kids 4-12, and kids 3 and under are free.
The second stage will feature local talent throughout the day.
“We try to reenact London ’s street like from them 1800s with cottage type booths,” Dalley said. “There are street theatre actors constantly walking around interacting with the crowd along with teen feet tall ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.”
For more information or to get involved in next year’s event visit dickenschristmasfestival.com.
Copyright 2011 St. George News. This material may not be published or rewritten without written consent.