Dickens Festijn in Deventer draws crowds despite train disruptions

The 32nd edition of the Dickens Festijn in Deventer successfully kicked off on Saturday, with organizers reporting a positive response from the crowds. The event, which transforms the medieval Bergkwartier area into a 19th-century English town, was met with good weather and a festive atmosphere, despite a temporary train disruption.

“We’ve seen happy people, and the atmosphere was great,” said Martijn Westerbrink, director of the organizing foundation. “It was a typical winter day, but that fits well with the Dickens Festijn.”

Saturday’s train disruption, caused by a technical issue, left some travelers unable to make their way to the event via train for several hours. According to Westerbrink, some visitors opted for buses or arrived later in the day. “On the positive side, the train issue spread out the visitors throughout the morning, which made the queues run more smoothly,” Westerbrink said.

The Dickens Festijn attracts roughly 125,000 visitors each year. Westerbrink expects that attendance will reach the same number this year. During peak times on Saturday, visitors waited in line for up to two hours. However, unlike last year, the event did not have to temporarily close due to overcrowding. “The queue is part of the experience,” Westerbrink added, noting that there were choirs, music, and performances to entertain those waiting.

For the first time, accessibility ambassadors were stationed throughout the festival to assist people with disabilities in locating a designated entrance. Although the entrance was available in previous years, a survey last year revealed that visitors had difficulty finding it. This year, thanks to the visibility of the ambassadors, access has improved, Westerbrink said.

Throughout the event, nearly 950 characters from the works of Charles Dickens, including Scrooge, Oliver Twist, and Mr. Pickwick, roam the streets of Deventer, adding to the festive atmosphere.

While the event has traditionally been free, there are indications that entry fees may be introduced next year. “Costs have risen so significantly that it’s almost unavoidable to charge for entry,” Westerbrink said. According to RTV Oost, the anticipated fee will be between 5 and 6 euros per person.