There’s no better place to feel the whimsy, nostalgia, and magic of the season than in Guernsey County, Ohio, a place where small-town charm meets big holiday cheer. 

Dickens Victorian Village’s Father Christmas with the Guernsey County Courthouse nightly holiday light show
Dickens Victorian Village’s Father Christmas with the Guernsey County Courthouse nightly holiday light show
Photo courtesy of Cambridge-Guernsey County VCB

The 20th Anniversary of Dickens Victorian Village

For 20 magical years, Dickens Victorian Village (with help from a host of volunteers) transforms historic downtown Cambridge, Ohio, into the old England of Charles Dickens novels Nov. 1, 2025, through Jan. 1, 2026. Stroll amidst nearly 100 scenes of lifelike figures representing classic scenes from the Victorian era, engaging the senses as you amble along a charming downtown streetscape featuring original architecture from the 1800s. Take a fun costumed photo, or browse unique and locally made holiday gifts at the Dickens Welcome Center. And don’t miss the downtown courthouse light show featuring more than 85,000 lights set to locally recorded music that sets the mood for the holiday season. 

Past guests have called Dickens Victorian Village the “Most Unique Holiday Destination in the Midwest!” Special events and attractions, from teas to trolleys, dot the Dickens calendar each year, so check the website for dates and details. This is truly a must-see for group tours. Don’t miss it or you might get the Dickens!

Family enjoying the Dickens Victorian Village Welcome Center dress-up area
Family enjoying the Dickens Victorian Village Welcome Center dress-up area
Photo courtesy of Cambridge-Guernsey County VCB

Sherlock Holmes Mystery Weekend

For mystery buffs, the Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Weekend (Nov. 7-8, 2025) promises an unforgettable experience. This year’s all-new case, “The Problem of the Two-Faced Spector,” will put your detective skills to the test. Help Holmes and Watson unravel a sinister plot within the Cambridge Police Department.

Ice Skating in Cambridge, Ohio
Mother and daughter learning to ice skate
Photo courtesy of Cambridge-Guernsey County VCB

Small-Town Experiences

For a quintessential small-town holiday experience, lace up your skates and glide into a winter wonderland at the Cambridge Ice Rink. Open from November to late January, the rink is a hub of holiday fun, offering skating, festive treats, and themed events. 

Guernsey County’s holiday traditions are truly one-of-a-kind, capturing the essence of a classic American Christmas and winter season. Whether you’re captivated by the mystery of Sherlock Holmes, enchanted by the charm of Dickens Victorian Village, or simply seeking a picturesque setting for holiday fun, Guernsey County has plenty of cheer to share with your group!

For more information or special requests, please contact Dixie Lacy at 740-432-2022 or groups@visitguernseycounty.com. To learn more about other special events and times, visit dickensvictorianvillage.com or visitguernseycounty.com!

Learn More
Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB
visitguernseycounty.com

Lead image:
Historic downtown Cambridge, Ohio trolley tour
Photo courtesy of Cambridge-Guernsey County VCB