Let the Holidays begin

Medford’s Dickens Festival Returns December 5

Beloved holiday tradition brings Victorian charm, live entertainment, local shopping and family fun to Historic Medford Village in Medford, NJ

MEDFORD, NJ — Historic Main Street will transform into a festive winter wonderland when the Medford Dickens Festival returns on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4:30–9:00 p.m. The event is free to attend and will be held rain, snow or shine.

Hosted by the Main Street Merchants of Historic Medford Village and generously sponsored for the fourth consecutive year by SJS Title, the Dickens Festival has welcomed generations of families to Medford since the 1990s. The annual celebration typically attracts more than 30,000 visitors from throughout South Jersey and beyond.

The evening begins at approximately 4:30 p.m., when Santa arrives by horse-drawn carriage and leads a parade from Harriet’s Oil to the Gazebo. The official Christmas tree lighting will follow at approximately 4:45 p.m.

Throughout the evening, visitors can enjoy holiday carolers, magicians, comedy and juggling performances, a live Nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides and family-friendly entertainment. More than 100 artisans and makers will line Main Street alongside food trucks, local shops, restaurants and businesses.

“There is something truly magical about seeing Main Street filled with families, music, twinkling lights and holiday traditions,” said Abbie Galie of Main Street Merchants. “The Christmas spirit is palpable - it’s nearly impossible to be there and not get swept up in the magic of it all.”

Free parking and shuttle service will be available from Freedom Park and Sharps Run Plaza near the Medford DMV, with drop-off locations at Cherry Street and Union Street. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, dress for the weather and make an evening of exploring Historic Medford Village.

“The Dickens Festival is a celebration of Medford, our local businesses and the community that supports them,” Galie added. “Watching the hard work of our volunteers come together to bring so much joy and positive energy to our community fills me with pride and joy every year.”

For festival information and updates, visit MainStreetMedford.com.