Illustration of a christmas market scene (Dickens Festijn Schiedam)
Christmas Markets

Dickens Festijn Schiedam

Step back in time at the Dickens Festijn Schiedam, a free, immersive event celebrating the spirit of Charles Dickens. Wander through a historic city center transformed into a Victorian wonderland, complete with costumed actors, street theater, and a bustling Christmas market. Savor festive treats, enjoy traditional crafts, and experience a heartwarming celebration of community and history.

What to Expect

Victorian-era street festival with historical reenactments.

Event Details

Duration

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Schiedam Centrum

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Stichting Triple C

Food & Drink

Festive food and warm beverages available from market vendors, including hot chocolate and freshly baked goods.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and history enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, nostalgic, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Schiedam Centrum
Westvest
Schiedam, ZH

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Parking: Paid parking is available in garages such as ABC Garage, Nieuwe Passage Garage, Stadserf Garage, Q-Park Garage, Vijfsluizen, and Parallelweg. Free parking is available in surrounding neighborhoods like Schiedam-West and Nieuwland. Bicycle parking is available at the Biesieklette on Broersveld.
  • Accessibility: Accessible toilets are available at the Bibliotheek de Korenbeurs and portable toilets are located on the Vismarkt. Some public toilets are also available in the Nieuwe Passage.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early, especially if driving, as parking garages can fill up quickly. Consider utilizing the free parking in nearby residential areas.
  • Pick up a program booklet at designated points to plan your day, as performances have limited capacity and specific start times.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring various locations like De Dam, Oude Sluis, Lange Haven, and Vismarkt.
  • Bring cash for market purchases, as not all vendors may accept card payments.
  • Keep an eye on children, and know that lost children can be taken to the 'snert kraam' on the Vismarkt.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free admission for all visitors
  • Opportunities to participate as a volunteer, actor, or vendor
  • Historical reenactments contrasting wealth and poverty

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main areas of the Dickens Festijn?

The festival spans De Dam, Oude Sluis, Lange Haven, and Vismarkt in Schiedam Centrum, each offering unique attractions.

Where can I find the event schedule?

Programmaboekjes with the full schedule of performances, music, and children's activities will be distributed at key locations.

Are there activities for children?

Yes, there is a dedicated children's square behind the library (Dam 1) with puppet shows, coloring, face painting, and old-fashioned sweets.

What is the pet policy?

No pets are allowed at the event, though service animals are welcome.

How can I get involved?

You can participate as a volunteer, an actor/extra, or a vendor at the Christmas market. Information and sign-up links are available on their website.

Tags

Christmas marketholiday marketfamily friendlystreet foodfree eventcommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesholiday traditionfestive foodhandmade crafts

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team