Last weekend, we had the pleasure of attending the Dickens Festijn in Deventer—a festival that brought the stories of Charles Dickens to life right before our eyes. The event was magical, filled with incredible performances, beautiful costumes, and delicious treats. Here’s a glimpse into our trip, tips for navigating the festival with a toddler, and practical advice for anyone planning to visit.

Preparing for the Journey with a Toddler

As parents of a toddler, we knew preparation was key for a smooth trip. The car ride to Deventer took us about 1.5 hours, so we packed plenty of snacks and our son’s favorite toys to keep him entertained and comfortable. Leaving early in the afternoon gave us plenty of time to enjoy the event while avoiding the morning rush.

Since the Dickens Festijn is an outdoor winter festival, we also made sure to dress warmly. Layers were essential to keep us comfortable as the weather changed throughout the day. We bundled up in thick coats, scarves, gloves, and hats, and chose sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and standing in queues. For our toddler, we dressed him in a warm jacket with extra layers underneath. We prepared a rain cover for his stroller—an absolute must in the unpredictable Dutch weather. With rain always a possibility, the cover kept him dry and shielded from the wind, ensuring he stayed snug and happy throughout the event.

Practical tips for visiting the festival

1. Parking and Facilities: We parked at the Centrumgarage, which was incredibly convenient. It’s close to the festival area and offers essential amenities like clean toilets and a dedicated space for changing diapers—a lifesaver when traveling with a toddler.
2. Check the Website Beforehand: The official Dickens Festijn website provides a festival map, schedules, and other useful details. This made it easier for us to plan our visit.
3. Free entrance ticket and prepare for queuing: No matter what time you arrive at the Dickens Festijn, be prepared for some queuing. The festival’s popularity means waiting is unavoidable, with lines lasting up to 2.5 hours during peak times. We opted to arrive around 3 PM on the second day of the festival, which reduced our wait to about 45 minutes. Planning your arrival time strategically can make a big difference, but patience is key to enjoying this magical experience!

Entering the World of Dickens

The festive atmosphere greeted us as soon as we arrived. Performers dressed as characters from Dickens’ novels—like Scrooge, Oliver Twist, from orphans to office clerks and posh people, filled the streets, creating a magical experience that transported us back in time.

The live acting was captivating, and even our toddler was mesmerized by the characters’ dramatic expressions and costumes. He pointed excitedly as the performers interacted with the crowd.

The food stalls were another highlight of the day! We warmed ourselves with flavorful sausages, creamy eggnog, and rich hot chocolate, which made the cold weather more bearable. We also picked up a bag of roasted chestnuts to bring home, extending the festive experience.

As the day wound down, a kind stall owner gave us free bread while closing their stall. It was such a heartwarming gesture that truly embodied the spirit of the event.

We ended our trip with a visit to the church, where a traditional Scottish music band performed classic Christmas carols in full traditional costumes. The sound of bagpipes and festive melodies filled the air, creating a serene and joyful ending to a day full of wonder.

The Dickens Festijn in Deventer was a fantastic experience, blending festive cheer, history, and family fun. Whether it’s enjoying the street performances, indulging in delicious treats, or soaking in the Christmas carols, there’s something for everyone. The live performances and interactions are the heart of this event—don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the magic!

We had an incredible time at the Dickens Festijn, and seeing the wonder through our toddler’s eyes made it even more special. If you’re looking for a unique holiday outing, this festival is well worth the trip!