World's biggest Dickens festival takes over Dutch city

In the charming Dutch city of Deventer, the magic of Charles Dickens takes centre stage every year at the world's largest Dickens festival. Started by shopkeeper Emmy Strik in 1991, this festival transforms the city into a Dickensian wonderland, drawing 125,000 visitors.

Now in its 33rd year, the Deventer Dickens Festival is a festive affair, with 950 volunteers in authentic Victorian costumes performing street theatre and selling treats. The rule? No modern gadgets allowed – it's all about that old-school charm.

Despite a break during the Covid pandemic, the festival is back, offering a chance for 62-year-old Wessel Lindeboom to play Scrooge and for visitors to step into another world. The festival not only entertains but also highlights societal issues, portraying the rich-poor divide of Victorian times.


Emmy Strik's vision lives on through her daughter Liesbeth Velders, who ensures the festival's authenticity. Visitors can expect scenes from Dickensian classics, including a meeting between Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens.

Beyond the fun, the festival carries a deeper message, reminding attendees of timeless themes. In a world where kids read less, it's a literary delight, introducing characters like Scrooge to those who may not have read Dickens.

Professor Peter Jan Margry in a Guardian report sees the festival as a welcome break, providing an escape into a world of carols, Christmas trees, and a break from reality. As the 31st edition unfolds, the Deventer Dickens Festival promises not just joy but a journey into the past and a celebration of timeless tales.