The World’s Smallest Parade, held on the Friday after Thanksgiving, kicks off Skaneateles Dickens Christmas, a month-long weekend-only event. The festival continues every Saturday and Sunday, leading up to Christmas.
Charles Dickens and other characters can be seen roaming the streets, shops, and restaurants, greeting guests and spreading holiday cheer. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides around the village, caroling and plays at the gazebo, and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.
2025 Dates: 11/28 , 11/29, 11/30, 12/6, 12/7, 12/13, 12/14, 12/20, 12/21, 12/24
For the most current information, please visit skaneateles.com.
Dickens Christmas Activities
During the holiday season, Charles Dickens and his troupe of more than 40 individuals engage with local inhabitants in streets, stores, and eateries, providing a unique experience to visitors. The village offers a variety of traditional Christmas activities, such as live performances by musicians, a joyful carol sing-along, horse-drawn wagon rides, and the classic winter treat of roasted chestnuts. Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere and make the most of your visit!
Check out this year’s schedule of performances at the gazebo and library.
Dining & Shopping in Skaneateles
All the unique shops, cafes, and restaurants on Genesee and Jordan Streets are open for holiday shopping. Shopping is easy—stroll around the village and stop at the various boutiques along Genesee (US-20), Jordan, and Fennel Streets. We found Skaneateles Artisans on Fennel while wandering around.
When you start getting hungry, keep these places in mind:
Doug’s Fish Fry
If you have to pick just one place to eat in town, this is the place.
Rosalie’s Cucina
People come from miles away to eat at this Italian restaurant, and reservations are required.
The Sherwood Inn
Not only is The Sherwood the center of Dickens’ Christmas activities, but it is also a gorgeous, historic building serving excellent meals. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Skaneateles Bakery
Perfect for a quick sandwich or hot beverage.
Explore More
Explore Skaneateles
More information about the 2025 Skaneateles Dickens Christmas
Cost: Free
Located 80 minutes / 70 miles from Rochester (get directions)
More information: skaneateles.com
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What is your favorite thing to do during the Skaneateles Dickens Christmas?
I’d love to hear from you—please reach out and share your thoughts and experiences.
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See you out there!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
Hello, disappointed we aren’t going to be able to make it to Skaneateles on a Saturday or Sunday. Just curious, not to much else is mentioned about the village itself. Are there a lot of houses and businesses that decorate with lots of lights and other attractions which might make it worth an hours drive to visit on a Friday afternoon/evening without being able to experience the Dickens Christmas? A real shame they don’t include activities on certain other days besides Sat & Sun.
I’m going to guess it’s Moro’s Kitchen. Does that sound familiar? https://moroskitchen.com/
Greetings, I saw a menu for a restaurant that was running during the Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles. It was on facebook, and now I can’t find it. It begins with an “M.” baked oysters was on the menu. Can you enlighten me, please? Thank you, Diane Holbert
What time are the horse wagon rides and th e parade