Some of the additions include a free standing cafe and bakery, new stage

shows, interactive candle shop, and a few surprises on the pathway to the

manger scene.

"We have a manger scene just a short walk from Dickens Village that

has some new wrinkles we think families will enjoy," says Febrey.

Of course, those familiar with past Dickens Villages will be happy to know

that the candy shop, toy shop, Christmas tree shop, outdoor shows, all the

free foods, cider and hot cocoa will still be available.

And those wondering if the two English Bobbies and chimneysweep will still

stroll the village need not worry.

"Our townspeople are a lot of fun, but our Bobbies and the chimneysweep

are always a big hit," says Julie Ballard, outside operations director

for Dickens Village.

Each event involves a lot of work by a lot of people and planning starts

in February.

"We begin in February while the previous event is still fresh in our

minds," Febrey says. "That way we can improve upon the upcoming

year's stage production and visuals."

The "visuals" are the sets and props that make up the Dickens

Village. "Main Street" runs through the village and consists of

a variety of shops, props, food stands, and Georgia Chestnuts.

"We tried roasting chestnuts on an open fire - but this is Georgia, "remarked

Marion "Big Daddy" Alley. "We found that boiling peanuts and

calling them Georgia Chestnuts made our guests a lot happier."

Street performers, such as minstrels, jugglers and town folk, mill about

the village, all dressed as and portraying 19th century English folk. The

performers stay as close to character as possible, even pretending to know

nothing of modern gadgets.

"When a guest asks a cast member to use their camera to take a photo,

our townspeople act as though they have never seen a camera before," said

Dr. Gregory Moffatt, overseer of the outdoor village and its characters. "It's

a lot of fun to watch the guests explaining how to use it. Sometimes guests

will ask several cast members to take photos just for the fun of watching

them all react to the camera."

Guests of Dickens Village leave with more than just a good time. Everything

at the village is free.

"Families can have their photo taken in Dickens-style clothing, children

can make toys or ornaments, drink hot chocolate, eat the village's famous 'Georgia

chestnuts,' and it is all free, said Ballard. "For those who simply

must bring their purses or wallets, there is a rumor that the Bobbies will

take tips to remove unruly children from their parents for a little 'attitude

adjusting.'"

There is a stage show each evening in the auditorium and outside dramas

and stage shows are on 30-minute rotations.

"A lot of activity goes on all at one time," said Johnny Prettyman

who leads the worship and arts department at Heritage. "There are more

than 300 cast and crew members working and performing simultaneously all

over the place. It is amazing how much hard work has to be done but how much

fun it is at the same time."

Hard work best describes Febrey's role in Dickens Village. As event

coordinator, she oversees every detail of Dickens Village.

"There are many talented people who make Dickens Village a success

each year," Febrey says of the cast and crew members, "and they

are more than just talented. They are passionate about what they do and are

always prepared for last minute changes to make our guests' visit as

enjoyable as possible."

For more information and show times call 770-716-5768 or visit Dickens Village

at https://www.dickenshcc.com.