This November, a charming, Victorian-themed Christmas market is coming to the Bay Area. The market transports attendees back to Victorian-era London, complete with lamplit streets, dance halls, lively characters, and even a pub crawl. Just 20 minutes from San Francisco, the classic Christmas fair and market is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with performances, unique gifts, drinks, and more.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is returning to San Francisco, bringing its signature whimsy and nostalgic holiday market. The event is an immersive experience, complete with hundreds of costumed performers and themed activities. You can expect multiple stages with live performances, themed “parlor games,” and even a music hall with dancing.
You can also take part in a pub crawl, gin tasting, or even get fitted for a corset with The Dark Garden Corset Experience. Other highlights include photo opportunities, a gift-wrapping station, and even fencing lessons.
Along with the many activities, you can also browse a selection of vendors selling art, jewelry, and collectibles, perfect for finding a unique holiday gift. Plus, you can grab a bite to eat from one of the various food vendors (don’t worry, the menu isn’t limited to Victorian-era cuisine).
The Great Dickens Christmas fair in 1970
The beloved holiday fair first made its debut on the San Francisco waterfront in 1970. The fair’s inspiration comes from Renaissance fairs created by Ron and Phyllis Patterson. The Pattersons planned to host a Christmas party in their home and decided that, instead of a Renaissance theme, the Victorian era was more fitting for the holiday party. The holiday party eventually turned into a public fair, which went on for three weeks at the San Francisco Embarcadero in 1970.
Tickets for The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Visitors are encouraged (but not required) to attend in Victorian costumes to fully immerse themselves in the cast of characters at the fair. The fair takes place inside Cow Palace, a 140,000-square-foot event space in Daly City. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair opens on November 21 and runs only on the weekends through December 20, 2026.
The fair costs $50 for adults and $30 for children for all-day admission. Discounted tickets are available for $35 and $20 for later entry starting at 3 pm. The fair opens at 10 am each day and closes at 6 pm. Tickets are only available online on The Great Dickens Christmas Fair website.