Mrs. Peerybingle believes the job of The Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Party (weekends through December 21 at the Cow Palace, Daly City) is to bring joy, to give people the chance to step outside their lives for a moment. And the 2025 Dickens Fair delivers Mrs. Peerybingle’s sentiment in a deep, layered, immersive jubilation. With more than 1200 costumed participants including over 400 actors swirling through the Cow Palace, Red Barn Productions has once again brought Victorian London (or a reasonable facsimile of it) to life.

As you explore the fair, pay attention to the tiny period details—set decorations, costumes, songs, a distinct lack of cell phones. Talk with the character: Ask about their lives, likes, stories. Each tiny piece adds up to an all encompassing ex

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