Special Events

This holiday ghost story pits Gabriel Grub, a grumpy gravedigger, against an army of goblins come to do him both harm and good. Many of the themes of "A Christmas Carol" were explored by a twenty-something Charles Dickens in this early tale of the grotesque.

Enjoy a traditional 19th century country Christmas dinner served family style and featuring local roast goose, root vegetables, soup, cabbage salad, pickles and for dessert; mincemeat pie or plum pudding. After dinner, experience a play based on a short story by Charles Dickens.

Even through World War I, people continued to dance the popular ragtime dances introduced between 1910 and 1914.  The dances were fun and easy to do and the music was lively and cheering so social dancing helped keep up spirits and keep the community together.

So join us as we celebrate this era of popular dances at our annual Fanshawe Frolic  weekend August 1-2. This year’s special theme is “Ragtime Frolic”, featuring dances popular during the war years – 1914-1918.

Dispatch received from the 1st (Royal Scots) Regiment, Grenadier Company:  “Citizens…His Majesty’s crown forces will make an aggressive attempt to reclaim the territories of Western Upper Canada. It is our intention to garrison our forces at the Village of Fanshawe and choose this ground to halt the advance of the American forces.  Beware of spies in your midst.”  Which side will you support?  

On August 4th, 1914, Canada and Britain declared war on Germany. The ensuing conflict lasted until November 11, 1918 and more than 60,000 Canadians were among the dead, wounded or missing.  Remember the history of World War I by participating in over a dozen activity stations, including a Military Funeral Procession, Assault on a German Bunker and WWI fashion show.