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The 32nd annual Dickens of a Christmas was, as in other years, a tremendous success. Thanks to unusually temperate weather (a high of 46°F), the turnout was even more impressive than last year’s. Excellent food and lively entertainment were enjoyed by all, locals and out-of-towners alike.

Highlights of the event included a massive model train show at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. WHP had the pleasure of speaking with Dennis Oberholtzer, an owner of one of the sets, who admitted that it took five hours for him and his wife to set up his display. His set is one which he grew up with and is primarily made of pieces from the 1950s.

Many attendees of the festival showed up in style, sporting Victorian garb. One dapper gentleman, Jim Landis, reported that this was his 6th or 7th year to wear the period style. “My sister-in-law, she makes all the costumes,” Landis adds, “…she designs the hats and everything else.”

The Dickens of a Christmas Peace Walk closed the days’ festivities. The occasion was presided over by Peter Herres (Exec. Director of Parks & Rec department), as well as Pastor Carl Linscott. Pastor Linscott read a portion of scripture from Luke 2, a valuable reminder of the reason for the Christmas merriment.

We at WHP hope you enjoyed Dickens weekend. In these weeks leading up to Christmas 2015, may “‘Glory [be] to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’” (Luke 2:14, KJV)