The Start of Something Bright
If you told me years ago that I’d be running one of the most talked-about Christmas light shows in the Raleigh area, I might’ve chuckled and gone back to checking on the hay bales. But here I am today, standing at the entrance of Fieldstream Farm each winter, watching thousands of cars line up to experience a mile-long drive-through of pure holiday joy.
It didn’t start with a business plan or a big investment. It started with a simple love for Christmas and the idea that maybe—just maybe—we could share a little light with the community.
A Humble Beginning
The first time we decorated the farm for Christmas, it was really just for fun. A few strands of lights on the barn, a wreath here and there, maybe a glowing reindeer out in the pasture. I did it mostly for my grandkids, who would light up brighter than any string of bulbs every time they saw the farm glow at night.
Neighbors started driving by. Then friends brought their families. Before long, word had spread, and it was clear that this wasn’t just something fun for us—it was something special for everyone.
That’s when the idea hit me: what if we turned this little holiday project into something the whole community could experience?
Turning the Farm into a Winter Wonderland
Now, I’ll be honest with you—building a Christmas light show on a working farm isn’t exactly easy. Dirt roads don’t always play nice with electrical cords, and let me tell you, chickens are not impressed by inflatables. But step by step, year after year, we figured it out.
We started adding lights—thousands at first, then hundreds of thousands. Today, we’ve got over two million lights that stretch across more than a mile of decorated pathways. Guests drive through tunnels of color, past glowing nativity scenes, snowmen, angels, and more Christmas cheer than you can count.
Each year, we try to add something new—something bigger, brighter, or more magical than the year before. It’s a labor of love, one I take seriously because I know how much people look forward to it.
What Makes It Special
Sure, it’s about the lights—but it’s also about everything those lights represent. Families come bundled up in pajamas, sipping hot cocoa, singing Christmas songs together. I’ve seen first dates turn into proposals out here. I’ve watched kids who visited in car seats come back years later as teenagers driving themselves through.
That kind of tradition is rare these days, and it’s something I’m proud to be a part of.
We keep the price low—$20 per car—because this isn’t about making a fortune. It’s about giving people a chance to slow down, smile, and feel something real during the holidays.
The Work Behind the Wonder
People often ask how long it takes to set it all up. The answer? Months. As soon as the weather starts cooling off in the fall, we’re out there stringing lights, checking bulbs, and driving tractors full of decorations across the property. I’ve got a great team that helps make it all happen—family, friends, even folks from church step in to lend a hand.
We test everything (and I do mean everything) multiple times. With that many lights and electrical connections, you’ve got to be careful. Safety is just as important as sparkle.
There are late nights and plenty of challenges—windstorms, blown fuses, and the occasional raccoon chewing through a wire. But every time we open the gates and see that first wave of cars come in, it’s all worth it.
A Deeper Meaning
For me, this light show is more than just decoration—it’s ministry. Christmas is a time of hope, joy, and the reminder that light can shine in even the darkest places. We make sure to include scenes that reflect the true meaning of Christmas too—Jesus in the manger, the wise men, the shepherds. It’s all part of the story we want to share.
In a world that often feels divided or too busy to slow down, we hope Fieldstream Farm can offer a peaceful place to reconnect—with family, with community, and with faith.
Looking to the Future
Every year, we see more families come through. And every year, I think of ways to make the experience even better. I’ve got a few surprises up my sleeve for future displays, and Lord willing, we’ll keep doing this for many Christmases to come.
I never set out to build a holiday tradition for thousands—I just wanted to bring a little joy to the people around me. But sometimes, the smallest ideas grow into something a whole lot bigger.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever been to Fieldstream Farm during the holidays, thank you for being part of this journey. And if you haven’t made the trip yet, consider this your invitation. Bring the family, roll down the windows, turn up the Christmas music, and let the lights remind you what the season is really about.
From our farm to your family—Merry Christmas, and God bless.