WELLSBORO - Downtown streets will be closed to motor vehicle traffic Saturday for Wellsboro's annual Dickens of a Christmas celebration.
Beginning at 9 a.m., more than 175 craft and food vendors will line the streets dressed in Victorian clothing to present many unique gift-giving options.
In addition, several indoor craft shows are being held at the United Methodist Church, the Wellsboro Senior Center and the Wellsboro Firemen's Annex.
Pony rides and a model train display will delight young and old alike.
As visitors stroll around town, they will be able to enjoy performances by The Dickens Players, "a diverse and talented assortment of amateur strolling performers" who will entertain and delight shoppers with their renditions of Christmas readings and carols.
The Men's and Women's Choruses will perform in front of the Arcadia Theater and several other local musical groups will be offering sidewalk performances throughout the day.
Fact Box
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Annual Dickens of a Christmas
celebration
WHEN: starts at 9 a.m. Saturday
WHERE: Downtown Wellsboro
In addition, the Tioga County Historical Society, the Green Free Library, Tussey Mosher Funeral Home and The Laurels will host open houses and offer free refreshments.
Numerous food vendors always are on hand to warm tummies and tickle taste buds with scrumptious treats.
Local churches will host luncheons, concerts, tours or special services throughout the day.
Hamilton Gibson Productions will present "A Christmas Carol" at the Black Box Theater and Warehouse Theatre at various times throughout the weekend. For ticket information, call 724-2079 or stop in at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts.
At 5 p.m. Saturday night, a Candlelight Walk for Peace will be held. It starts at Packer Park on Queen Street and travels along Main Street to The Green, where the annual community Christmas tree-lighting ceremony and carol sing will be held at 5:30 p.m.
Corrin Binford, of Troy, the reigning Laurel Queen, will be on hand to light the giant Christmas tree, and Santa will have special treats for the youngsters.
For a schedule of events with times and locations, contact the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce at www.wellsboropa.com, or 724-1926 or at the chamber office at 114 Main St.
The schedule also will be available at local businesses, motels and restaurants the day of the event.
