Meadow Lights: Historic 30-Acre Christmas Light Display & Train Ride

About this adventure

Operating for over 50 years, Meadow Lights is the oldest, largest, and most famous Christmas light display in eastern North Carolina, drawing families across multiple generations to rural Johnston County. Spanning over 30 illuminated acres, Meadow Lights features millions of sparkling bulbs arranged in ground displays, animated scenes, illuminated animal figures, and a life-sized glowing nativity. Families can ride miniature open-air passenger trains winding through the woods and light displays, hop on an illuminated vintage carousel, and explore the Old Country Store candy shop featuring over 300 varieties of old-fashioned candies, fudge, and holiday treats. Santa Claus visits nightly to hear Christmas wishes. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Ground pathways through the main light village and around the Old Country Store are unpaved but hard-packed gravel and dirt, easily navigable with all-terrain strollers or wagons. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Restroom facilities are located near the train depot and candy shop; covered wooden picnic pavilions and benches offer relaxed seating to nurse or feed little ones. • Age Suitability: Wonderful for all ages from babies to great-grandparents. The miniature train ride and vintage carousel are huge hits with toddlers and young children. • Sensory Tips: The walking displays offer a calm country ambiance with nostalgic holiday music. The miniature train has a cheerful bell and headlight, making it an engaging sensory experience for kids.