A Dicken’s Christmas has been a long-time Skaneateles tradition. Each year beginning Thanksgiving weekend, a large cast of Dicken’s clad performers fill the downtown area of Skaneateles. The holiday weekends leading up to Christmas are filled with activities, music, and fun. We have visited Skaneateles a few times during a Dicken’s Christmas, and it is truly a unique event and something everyone should experience.
The whole town is decked out for Christmas- The shop windows are full of artfully created holiday displays, the streets have been draped in colorful lights and evergreens, and Christmas cheer is clearly visible. Enjoy the festive hospitality of all the local businesses that have thrown open their doors in the most welcoming way.
The following information is from the Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce.
World’s Smallest Christmas Parade
Don’t miss the annual “World’s Smallest Christmas Parade” on opening day, Bright Friday, November 29, at noon. Welcome the Dickens characters to Skaneateles for a short parade through the village. Starting at noon at the Skaneateles Village Hall on Fennell Street, proceeding east to Jordan and Genesee streets, and arriving at the Hannum House porch in time for the 12:10 p.m. grand opening.
Highlights of this year’s season include:
The following occur every Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving thru Dec 24 PLUS Fri, Nov 29 from Noon-4pm & Sun Dec 24 Noon-2:30pm
Presented by: The Sherwood Inns and Appetites, Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and the Skaneateles-Area Business Community
*Noon kick-off to Dickens each day on the porch of the Hannum House (corner of Genesee & Hannum Streets)
*Strolling Dickens characters performing interactive street theatre
*Father Christmas greets children from 12:30-2 pm, and 3-4 pm at the Masonic Temple Porch, 13 E. Genesee St.
*Free roasted chestnuts in front of The Savage Homestead (61 E Genesee Street). Brought to you by: The Savage Homestead and TOPS Friendly Markets
*Free eggnog served by local Girl Scout Troops every Saturday at 42 E. Genesee St. Eggnog courtesy of Byrne Dairy
*Caroling at 2 pm at the Gazebo. The Mid-Day Revels! (Poor weather location….Hannum House Porch)
*Appearances by the Bright Friday Brass, Nov. 29 and every Saturday.
*Live shows and music at the Skaneateles Library, 1 and 3 pm daily! See the calendar below.
*Sing Christmas carols with the “Dickens Singers” – listen for them throughout the village
*Mother Goose reads to children at Loft 42 from 12:30 – 4 pm (42 E. Genesee St./lobby of the building)
Parking
FREE PARKING ~ Locations: Austin Park Pavilion (corner of Jordan and Austin Sts, across from St. Mary’s Church), Skaneateles High School Lower Lot (Across from the top of Leitch Ave on Elizabeth Street).