A Dickens Holiday
Visitors step into a Victorian celebration filled with carolers, costumed characters, and street performers. Guests can explore an artisan marketplace, browse participating downtown shops and restaurants, and join the evening Candlelight Procession. The celebration also features evening entertainment and a fireworks finale at Segra Stadium.
What to Expect
Victorian celebration featuring costumed characters, a candlelight procession, and fireworks.
Event Details
Duration
From noon into the evening.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Fayetteville
Organizer
Downtown Creative Works™
Food & Drink
Festival marketplace vendors and downtown restaurants will offer places to eat; the pages mention a ticketed Royal Tea & Tour but do not specify other drinks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday shoppers who enjoy outdoor festivities
Vibe
Victorian and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Admission is free. Royal Tea and Carriage Rides are ticketed. – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking information and recommended arrival routes will be posted as the 2026 festival plan is finalized.
Tips & Advice
- Reserve the Royal Tea & Tour or a carriage ride ahead of time, because booking early is the surest way to get a spot.
- Dress in layers with comfortable walking shoes, and pack a hat and gloves because the Candlelight Procession runs into the evening.
- Pick up your procession candle at a participating downtown business during the afternoon, so you're ready when the lighting ceremony begins.
- Plan to come even if the forecast looks wet, because the festival runs rain or shine.
- Eat at downtown restaurants or marketplace vendors between performances, since they stay open throughout the festival.
Special Events & Promotions
- Royal Tea & Tour: a Victorian tea service and historic house tour at Sandford House, with several afternoon seatings (ticket required).
- Private horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown throughout the day and evening (reservations required).
- Dickens After Dark: holiday lights, evening entertainment, the Candlelight Procession and a fireworks finale at Segra Stadium.
- Town Crier Challenge: post your prompts on social media with #BeADickensTownCrier before entries close in the afternoon.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which experiences need booking ahead?
Only the Royal Tea & Tour at Sandford House and the private horse-drawn carriage rides need tickets or reservations. Most performances, the roaming characters, the marketplace, the Candlelight Procession and the evening celebration are free.
What should we wear?
Dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat and gloves for the evening Candlelight Procession.
Does it go ahead if it rains?
Yes. The festival happens rain or shine.
How do I get a candle for the procession?
Pick one up during the afternoon at participating downtown businesses. Pick-up details are still being confirmed.
How can I get involved?
You can volunteer, sell your goods at the holiday marketplace as a vendor, become a sponsor, or donate through Downtown Creative Works™.
More Christmas Events Near Fayetteville
More Christmas Events near Fayetteville
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.