11_26_14-candlelight-loft-tours.gifDowntown Fayetteville is an exciting hub of activity and fun for the community. Every year, for one night only, the people who live in the lofts downtown decorate and open their homes to anyone in the community who would like to have glimpse into loft living. The event keeps getting bigger and better every year.

“We have eight lofts committed, and that may go up to 10,” said Ingrid Stelly the vice president of the Downtown Alliance.
Loft living isn’t very common in Fayetteville. It is a unique form of living in the heart of the city in the spaces above restaurants and storefronts. In many cases, the spaces are quite charming and bigger than one might expect. The loft tours offer a glimpse into the downtown lifestyle. For those who have never experienced the annual Candle Light Loft Tour, Stelly says, “People should expect a look into the urban living in downtown Fayetteville.

They will see the beautifully decorated lofts and the loft form. It is a great way to enjoy December and an adventure for Christmas. The lofts are decorated for Christmas and you can enjoy the sweet sounds of carolers as they stroll the streets. This is an exciting kick-off for the Christmas season.”

Travelling between the participating lofts is a great experience as well. Though downtown is beautiful in the brisk evening air, walking is not the only option. “BMW is bringing its electric car, which will take people to and from the different streets for free. We will also have carriage rides to take people to and from the lofts,” said Stelly.

Organizing the Candlelight Loft Tour is a big undertaking, but one that the event organizers enjoy. It is run and organized entirely by volunteers from  beginning to end. Stelly, in particular, is extremely excited for the annual tour. “I’m most excited for seeing the apartments. There was not a lot of urban living downtown before. Seeing the decorated lofts and interacting with the loft owners and getting to hear their experiences are great,” she said. And she is not the only one in the community who loves the tour.

“This has become an annual event and we get inquiries into the loft tours as early as October. Folks look forward to it,” she continued.
The Candle Light Loft Tour is an opportunity to experience a unique lifestyle in the beautiful and historic downtown. The homes are gorgeously and meticulously decorated for the holiday. It is simply an annual tradition that shouldn’t be missed. For those who do attend, Stelly suggests, “To get the most out of the experience, you should try to see the most lofts. And the way to do that is to show up on time because it is only three hours. So get your tickets early and come on time.”

Tickets are available at the Downtown Alliance office, The Pilgrim and So Chic Bebe. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 the night of the tour. Proceeds support the Downtown Alliance. Tickets are on sale now. The tour takes place on Dec. 14 and start at 6 p.m. For more information visit the following site www.faydta.org/candlelight-loft-tour or call
222-3382.