A Return to Tradition: ‘A Dickens Holiday’ to Illuminate Downtown Fayetteville, NC for 2023

FAYETTEVILLE, NC – As the festive season approaches, Downtown Fayetteville is set to welcome back the beloved “A Dickens Holiday” event in its traditional form, promising a return to the cherished customs that have long defined this family-friendly celebration.

For over two decades, the streets of Downtown Fayetteville have been transformed into a Victorian-era wonderland the day after Thanksgiving, a tradition cherished by both locals and visitors alike. However, last year saw a significant shakeup. The event, traditionally held on Hay Street, was moved to Franklin Street and shared downtown space with “Holidays on Hay: A Season of Light,” an alternative festival introduced by The Arts Council.

While the “Holidays on Hay” brought its own charm with life-sized Christmas decor and an innovative drone light show, it met with mixed reactions. The deviation from tradition sparked some disappointment and confusion among annual attendees. Despite the changes, the spirit of the season flourished on Franklin Street, where a smaller scale “A Dickens Holiday” event managed to capture the Victorian essence with bustling streets, themed decorations, and horse-drawn carriages.

This year, as the Arts Council steps back from the holiday event scene, the Downtown Alliance merchants’ association, in collaboration with the Fayetteville History Museum, is set to reinstate “A Dickens Holiday” to its former glory. The 24th presentation of this enchanting event marks a full return to the heart of Fayetteville, encompassing Hay Street and its surrounding areas.

The event is poised to feature various stages across downtown, each hosting a variety of performances, adding to the festive feel. Notably, the traditional candlelight procession will see a change in its route. Instead of converging at the historic Market House as in previous years, participants will gather around a grand Christmas tree on Hay Street. Attendees are encouraged to pick up a candle cup from participating downtown businesses between 2-4pm to join in this iconic procession.

This year’s “A Dickens Holiday” aims to blend the nostalgia of its Victorian-themed past with fresh elements, ensuring a delightful experience for all. The expanded footprint promises more space for activities and performances, catering to a wider audience and rekindling the community’s festive spirit.

As Fayetteville gears up for this much-anticipated event, the excitement is clear. The return of “A Dickens Holiday” symbolizes not just a nod to tradition, but a celebration of community resilience and the joy of coming together. This year, as families and friends gather under the festive lights of Downtown Fayetteville, they will be partaking in a tradition that has been a cornerstone of the community’s holiday season for nearly a quarter of a century.

For more information on “A Dickens Holiday,” please visit https://www.faydta.com/adickensholiday.

Kres Thomas, FayToday News