Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. What's On
  3. Find events
  4. Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival 2023
DSCF1547

Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival 2023

2nd December - 3rd December 2023

Step back in time and start the festive season in Dickensian style.

Step back in time and start the festive season in Dickensian style at the popular Rochester Dickensian Christmas festival taking place on Saturday, 2 and Sunday, 3 December. 

Each year, the first weekend of December brings Victorian festivities to Rochester in the form of a Dickensian Christmas, where you can experience street entertainment, readings, song and dance.

You’ll be captivated by Dickens’ characters as you explore the literary journey that was the great writer’s life.

A full programme of colourful and lively events will be published nearer the time.

Festival Parades & Carols

11am - Seven Poor Travellers' Procession

Led from outside the Victoria & Bull Hotel, by the Town Crier, the procession will move along the High Street and conclude outside the Six Poor Travellers' House, where a short speech will be made.

12Noon - Main Parade

Led by the Mayor of Medway, the parade of costume characters and performers will start in the High Street by Almon Place. It will move along the High Street, turn left at Northgate into Boley Hill and finishing on the Boley Hill Stage.

4.45pm - Candlelit Parade

Led by the Mayor of Medway, the parade will start on the High Street by Almon Place. It will move along the High Street and turn left into Boley Hill to join the carol service on the open air stage.

5pm - Carols for Christmas

This year we welcome the Rochester Choral Society as they lead the magical concert. Join BAE Systems Brass Band and all the festival performers in a selection of popular Christmas carols outside Rochester's magnificent cathedral on Boley Hill, under a guaranteed snowfall.

Compare for the Main Stage on Boley Hill 
Special Guest: Graham Woodward

The voice of England’s Cricket Team, he presents live at the Oval and Lords, as well as other sporting presenter roles, from horse racing commentary for Coral TV to short circuit motor racing. A talented host who will bring the stage to life.

Festival Programme

So that you don't miss anything, why not download the festival programme before you arrive?  

Getting to Rochester's Christmas Events

There are many options for visitors to our Christmas Events to travel sustainably to Rochester.  For more details, click here.

Rochester Christmas Market 

The Rochester Christmas Market will be taking place at the same time as the festival. For more details on the market, click here.

Days and times

  • Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December
    10am - 6pm

Visiting Coaches

Coach booking system has now closed. Most slots are full, but if you need assistance email us for advice.

Location

Address

Rochester Town Centre

Medcouncil Cmykstrapline
Visit Medway
Official website of Visit Medway, Medway Council
Our Destinations
Official website of Visit Medway, Medway Council