The board of directors of the Northwest Chapter of the Victorian Society in America announces that the 2013 Victorian Festival, scheduled for March 23-25, will be under the leadership of a new organization: Olympic Peninsula Steam (OPS).

Organizing involvement by members of OPS in 2012 heralded a shift in the variety of events offered. The new and exciting changes were welcomed by the community and visitors who attended from as far away as Portland, Ore. VSA-NW was delighted with the response and renewed interest and eager to see the festival continue into future years.

Nathan Barnett, an active and recently arrived member of the community, is a charter member of OPS and has sparked interest in many diverse Victorian-themed events which will be returning in 2013, including fencing, pugilism, historical steam vessels, historical re-enactments and educational programs.

Updates regarding events planned for 2013 are still under development and will begin appearing on the website soon, along with schedule and ticketing information. 

There are many opportunities to volunteer during the planning stages and on the days of the festival. Check the website for contact information and event updates. Newcomers and volunteers are welcomed! 

The Victorian Festival has run annually in March since 1997. Originally conceived and sponsored by Main Street, it then came under the umbrella of the Jefferson County Historical Society in 2003. VSA-NW took the helm in 2009 through 2012, although no festival was held in 2010 due to the downturn in the economy. 

This year holds bright promise for new and exciting events, as well as a few popular standards that have been part of the festival since its earliest days. Visit www.vicfest.org.