Californians are always looking for ways to connect with the forgotten past and there's one holiday event that brings it all to life like no other. Held at the Cow Palace, the Dickens Fair invites guests to wear Victorian attire if they like and join in the merriment with Tiny Tim and a cast of around 700 costumed actors who will make you believe you are now wandering the busy streets of London during the holidays.

Founded in 1970, the event offers amazing entertainment and is well worth a hop on a flight to see and experience. Continuous performances on six stages and in the streets feature lively and colorful characters from Dickens' London. Included are energetic song and dance in Fezziwig's Warehouse, boisterous music hall performers in Mad Sal's Dockside Alehouse, chimney sweeps, Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and that evil genius Fagin.

Gourmet chefs prepare and sell fish and chips, English bangers, Greek, and all kinds of faire, and there are five authentic pubs serving Craft Ales from local breweries, or fine wines and champagne will be available by the glass.

The event is kid-friendly, too, and features lots of activities for youth. For dates, times, cost & location, see dickensfair.com