DEVENTER, Netherlands – This past Saturday, the Dutch city of Deventer became a charming representation of 19th-century England as 950 participants donned costumes to bring to life characters from the works of Charles Dickens.
Amid the historic architecture of the city, familiar figures like Oliver Twist, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Miss Havisham interacted with onlookers, alongside chimney sweeps, livestock, and performers singing traditional Christmas carols. The crowd curtsied as Queen Victoria made her regal entrance through the festival.
Local merchants showcased antiques and gingerbread treats, while individuals portraying pickpockets attempted to evade capture and avoid a visit to a whimsical mock Marshalsea Prison.
The festival’s origins trace back to local resident Emmy Strik, who initiated the event to voice her discontent regarding restrictions on opening her antique shop on Sundays. Strik and fellow shopkeepers took to the streets in 19th-century attire, and this protest gradually blossomed into an annual celebration. Now at the age of 84, Strik has amassed over 1,000 Dickens-themed costumes for the occasion.
The organizers have implemented a strict dress code for participants, insisting that no clothing or accessories from after the 1800s be worn.
Sandra Nieland, portraying Queen Victoria, described her period-appropriate costume, noting, “In her youth, she was a stunning queen, and as she aged, she mourned her husband, Albert. Thus, she frequently wore black and kept her adornments minimal, typically just her rings. … She was known to wear many rings.”
As the festival celebrates its 32nd year, it consistently draws around 100,000 visitors annually from both the Netherlands and other countries, according to local organizers. This influx of attendees creates bustling crowds that fill the narrow streets.
Amateur street actor Stef Jongbloed embraced the joyous atmosphere, sharing, “In addition to the specific characters, there are countless individuals who dress up just for the enjoyment of it, spending the entire day walking around. Experiencing this together is truly what makes it so remarkable.”