People often think that there’s never much to do right here in the heart of Fayetteville, so they look to neighboring cities like Raleigh and Cary for a great time, but on Dec. 15, the Fayetteville Downtown Alliance will host its 14th Annual Candelight Loft Tours, which promises to be a very interesting downtown event that showcases architecture and living in Downtown Fayetteville.

“We try to showcase Downtown Fayetteville as a great place to shop, eat, play and live,” said Janet Lee, the chairman of the tour. “This is an event that everyone can be a part of and see what it’s like to live in Downtown Fayetteville.”

Just past the traffic circle and on to the cobblestoned streets of Downtown Fayetteville, Hay Street will be candlelit for a guided tour of artistic, original and cutting-edge loft designs. Residents will open their doors to the public in what will feel like an intimate experience of their unique versatility, creativity and decorative elegance in a location that overlooks the small shops of Hay Street. Participating businesses will also open for anyone who’s looking to do some shopping throughout the evening.

Each year, residents are asked if they would like to put their residence on tour for this one-day event in which participants vary from year to year, depending on who’s going to be in town, who’s decorated for the holidays and who’s ready to have people walk through their residence. “The experience is very similar to that of a neighborhood tour except that this will take place in residences that are downtown,” said Lee.

Daniel Brumm, a resident who participated in last year’s event, will participate in this year’s event as well. In light of the tour, he ensures that there are candlelights throughout his residence for the sake of a complete showcase. He enjoys decorating for the holidays and putting an interesting twist for those taking the tour.

“We’re always eager to have the public come out and visit Downtown Fayetteville,” said Lee. “The tour will go up and down Hay Street, Old Street and some of Person Street just around the Market House.”

The event is on Dec. 15 and will last from 6-8 p.m. Tickets will go on sale Nov. 29. Tickets are $10 in advance and will be $12 on the day of the actual event. Pre-event tickets are on sale now and the first 100 people to turn in their tickets for an armband will receive a swag bag full of coupons and information about downtown businesses.

Ticket outlets include the Downtown Alliance Office in Downtown Fayetteville, So Chic Bebe, City Center Gallery & Books, Rude Awakening Coffee House, MoonStone Jewelry and Gifts and The Pilgrim, located in the Westwood Shopping Center. With its many historic landmarks, free museums, movie theaters and outdoor dining, there really is a lot to see and do right here in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville.

Additional information for the Candlelight Loft Tours can be found at www.faydta.org or 910-222-3382.