Claremore Brings Victorian Christmas Magic To Main Street With Dickens On The Boulevard

Claremore is taking a page out of Charles Dickens's book to ring in the holiday season.

"We celebrate taking a step back in time to the 1800s as the Victorians would celebrate the holidays in London," said Steve Robinson, Executive Director of Claremore Main Street.

Along Main Street are several antique shops full of history and character. Brenda Reno is the owner of Sailor Antiques & Collectibles. 

"I have just always loved the history behind items," she said.

She and the other shop owner's large windows make the perfect setting for Dickens on the Boulevard.

The event includes music, street dance, food, games, hot cocoa, a visit from Santa, and window setters. Finding people to dress in Victorian attire and play these characters is the easy part. 

"We actually do not have to look too hard," said Robinson. "We have the opposite problem; we have more window setters than we have windows."

Vicki Boyd has been doing it for 15 years and even makes her own Victorian attire. "I have an attic that has several bags with costumes," she said.

Her favorite part about the event is how it brings the community together. 

"When the kids come and they are just so thrilled to see the costumes and all that is going on, it is just a magical time of year," Boyd said.

Dickens on the Boulevard is Friday, Nov. 22 and Saturday, Nov. 23 from 6-9 p.m.