If you’ve never had the pleasure of visiting a downtown loft, the candlelight loft tour is a can’t miss event. Not only are the homes quirky and interesting, they are decorated in Christmas splendor and ready to impress. Have you ever wondered what the space is like above the Cameo Theatre, or what about that space above McDuff’s Tea Room? Who spends their evenings looking down from the balcony over Bob & Sheree’s Beer & Wine shop? Well, now is your chance to find out.

This year, as in years past, several of downtown’s residents are throwing open their doors and inviting the public into their homes to share their way of life and give us a peek at the historical abodes above the shops.

Make your way downtown on Dec. 12 for this once-a-year peek into the downtown lofts.

“The tour will have 10 or so homes and is self guided so you can set your own pace,” said Chris Villa, Downtown Alliance spokesperson.

“There is always something new and different to see — and then we have some regular properties on the tour that everyone looks forward to seeing. This year we hope to have a few lofts that have not been on the the tour in a while.”

Villa didn’t mention any names but, the spaces are so varied and individualized, that every year is a treat — and a bit of a surprise.

Buy a ticket, ($10 in advance through the Downtown Alliance, Rude Awakening and City Center Gallery and Books and $13 on the day of the event) grab a map and wristband and begin your downtown adventure.

Tours will run from 5-8 p.m. For tickets and more info., call 222-3382. Be sure to stop at the Downtown Alliance office on Hay Street before you start out. Tour volunteers won’t let you into the buildings without a wristband and the Downtown Alliance is the only place to get one.