Meadow Lights facts for kids

Meadow Lights is a huge and amazing Christmas light display located near Meadow, North Carolina. It covers about 30 acres, which is like 30 football fields! Every year, from Thanksgiving until New Year's Day, families can visit this magical place. It's been open for over 40 years, bringing joy to many people.

Discovering Meadow Lights

Meadow Lights is a very large outdoor Christmas light show. It's owned and run by Roy Johnson and his family. The display is right next to their home. You'll see many different light displays, some as tall as several stories! There are also displays with mannequins that show scenes from the life of Jesus.

It's free to visit Meadow Lights and walk around. However, if you want an extra special experience, you can buy tickets for a fun train ride. This train takes you right through the middle of the bright light displays!

How Meadow Lights Began

Roy Johnson, the owner, used to be a tobacco farmer. He started Meadow Lights as a hobby. He wanted to entertain his neighbors and his own children during the holidays. What began as a small project grew into the huge display it is today!

In 1994, the Johnson family added "The Old Country Store." This store is in the parking lot. It sells drinks and old-fashioned candy, which is a big hit with visitors.

Expanding the Fun

Meadow Lights has grown over the years. In 2006, a big light show called Celebration of Lights closed down in Raleigh. Roy Johnson bought many of their light displays. This helped Meadow Lights become even bigger and brighter!

In 2007, a fun carousel ride was added. Now, visitors can enjoy both the lights and a classic carnival ride. The money earned from the store and from selling tickets for the train and carousel helps pay for the electricity. Running such a huge light display uses a lot of power!