Dickens on Centre Festival

About the Event

The Tenth annual Dickens on Centre festival in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, Florida, on beautiful Amelia Island promises to be the biggest and merriest we’ve ever had! Free to the public, this Victorian holiday festival is sure to enliven your Christmas spirit. Throughout the weekend, feel the spirit of the holiday with Victorian-inspired entertainment on two stages. Families will enjoy a plethora of fun including Tiny Tim’s Kids Zone, visits with St. Nick, holiday entertainment and shopping, festive food and drink, costumed characters, holiday movies and plenty of Christmas inspiration.

This Christmas, Come Make Memories.

Special Events!

Dickens Dining & Drinks

Enjoy the all-new Holiday Hunt! Unlock challenges as you explore Amelia Island’s culinary scene. Complete tasks and follow the interactive map to collect points for exclusive festival prizes.

Dickens Portraits with St. Nick

St. Nick is setting up his workshop in Tiny Tim’s Kid Zone. Be sure to capture the moment with a treasured keepsake photo! Check back for more information and to make a reservation.

St. Nick Portraits with Boston Photography

Friday, December 13 - 6:45-9pm 

Saturday, December 14 - 11am-2pm & 3-5:30pm 

Sunday, December 15 - 11am-3pm

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Run Like the Dickens

Join us for this 1-mile fun-run on Amelia Island Main Beach. Everyone is welcome — even dogs!

JOIN IN

Dickens Illuminated Procession

Gather with something that glows or twinkles and take a stroll through Fernandina’s historic district for an evening of music, food and a surprise finale over the riverfront!

Light the Lights!

Dickens Enchanted Village

Step into an exclusive, magical experience in one of ten uniquely decorated Christmas-themed snow globes! Join the fun and spend an hour with friends or loved ones, creating cherished memories that could even turn the heart of ole Scrooge himself. And, maybe — just maybe, you might see snow!

Experience Magic

Dickens After Dark

Marley’s Masquerade. Join us for the exclusive Victorian costume party of the holiday season! The historic Lesesne House on Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach is transformed for this 21+ VIP soiree complete with stilt walkers, jugglers, live music, and more! Costumes required. Presented by Jacksonville International Airport.

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Festival Highlights

Holiday Entertainment

From theatrical performances and costumed characters to musical acts and visits from Jolly Old St. Nick, the entertainment lineup offers something for everyone! Join us for a weekend of inspired performances!

December 12, 2024

Dickens Illuminated Procession

The annual Dickens Illuminated Procession walking parade kicks off Dickens on Centre, Thursday, December 12th! Participation to march in the procession is free and food is available for purchase from local food trucks.

Participants are encouraged to bring illuminated lanterns or something that shines, glows or twinkles. Only battery operated lights and lanterns will be permitted (no open flames or candles). Show off your holiday spirit and creativity by creating homemade lanterns!

Presented by Snyder Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Electric.

Procession Schedule:

5:00pm: Music, food trucks, and general holiday merriment begins downtown near the Christmas Tree on Front Street

6:00pm: Procession participants gather on Front Street

6:15pm: Procession begins

Parade Route: East on Ash Street, North on 6th Street, and West on Centre Street

6:45pm: An illuminated finale will end the evening fun over the riverfront!

Date: December 12Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Venue: Front Street N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Dickens Express Free Trolley

Complimentary parking and trolleys will be available from the Nassau County School Board lot on Atlantic Avenue across from Central Park. Trolleys run on approximately 15-minute loop to 4th Street. 

Thursday, December 12 - 4:30-7:00pm 

Date: December 12 - 15, 2024

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