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.

Get Tickets!

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. 

Friday, December 13 - 4:45-9:30pm 

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!

Friday, December 13 - 5 - 9pm

5-9pm - Pocket Park - Christmas Wish Tree

5-9pm - Fezziwig's Courtyard

5-5:30pm - Wharf Main Stage - Navy Band SW Wind Ensemble

5-5:30pm - 2nd Street Stage - Noise Complaint

5-7pm - Pocket Park - Emilia Cole, Violinist

5-6:30pm - St.Peter's Episcopal Church - Victorian Evensong featuring the Chancel Choir & Children's Choir

5:45pm - Wharf Main Stage - Opening Ceremony with Justin Taylor & St.Nick

Reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas with Ron Kurtz

6-6:45pm - 2nd Street Stage - Bean School of Dance

6:30-7pm - Wharf Main Stage - Yulee High School Jazz Band

6:30pm - Old Vic Theatre - The Santa Clause (97 minutes)

6:45-9pm - St.Nick's Workshop - St.Nick Portraits Boston Photography

7-7:30pm - 2nd Street Stage -  Ocean Way Dance

7:30-9pm - Wharf Main Stage - One Man Performance of A Christmas Carol by Jason Woods

8-9pm Pocket Park - Kristen Sparrow Circus - Aerialist

9pm - Finale over the Harbor

Date: December 12 - 15, 2024

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