by Jenni Horn

jhorn@thekmgroup.co.uk

A new event will add a different dimension to Rochester’s annual Dickens extravaganza this weekend.
The Traditional England Festival takes place in The Vines, Rochester, on Saturday and Sunday.
The event’s theme is a “celebration of all that’s good about England in the glorious summer”.
Attractions range from shire horses to a tug-of-war and falconry displays.
The Dickens Festival itself, which draws visitors from around the world, begins today and continues on Saturday and Sunday.
Now in its 31st year, the colourful spectacular will once again celebrate the life and times of the great writer with a unique combination of music, dance, drama and street theatre.
During a weekend of colour, costume and entertainment, visitors will soak up the Victorian atmosphere as costumed parades make their way through central Rochester each day.
This year’s festivities will include a Dickens First Night Ball at the Corn Exchange, paddle steamer cruises on the Medway, a traditional fun fair, Victorian children’s games and costume competitions at Rochester Castle Gardens, a craft fair, services at Rochester Cathedral, Victorian workshops and exhibitions at the Guildhall Museum, cream teas, entertainment, exhibitions and demonstrations at the Corn Exchange.
Charles Dickens spent five of his childhood years in Medway from 1817 to 1822. He was a national legend when he returned for the last 13 years of his life, dying at Gad’s Hill in 1870. The Rochester area was the inspiration for many of Dickens’ greatest works. Among them is Restoration House in Rochester, which became Satis House in Great Expectations, where Miss Havisham lived.
For details and to download a brochure see www.medway.gov.uk/dickensfestival