Meadow Lights - Image 1
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Meadow Lights

4.6
·2k reviews·Benson, United States

Eastern North Carolina's largest & oldest Christmas attraction, featuring a magical train ride through dazzling lights and a nostalgic candy store. [^...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, early evening

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow
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Meadow Lights - Image 1

Meadow Lights

Best Time

Weekdays, early evening

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Eastern North Carolina's largest & oldest Christmas attraction, featuring a magical train ride through dazzling lights and a nostalgic candy store. TikTok+1

4.6
(2k reviews)

"It's hard to beat $3.00 train and carousel rides for the kids, minus the train sound system being broken."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before Dark

Catch the transition from dusk to dark for the full light show magic on the train!

🎟️ Buy Tickets Early

Purchase your tickets before getting in line to save time and hassle.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magical Train Ride

Magical Train Ride

Throughout the grounds

Glide through over 30 acres of dazzling Christmas light displays on a festive train ride.

TikTok+1
Old-Fashioned Candy Store

Old-Fashioned Candy Store

Country Store

A treasure trove of nostalgic candies, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

TikTokReddit
Carousel Fun

Carousel Fun

Amusement area

Enjoy a classic carousel ride for a touch of old-world charm and festive cheer.

TikTok
Visit with Santa

Visit with Santa

Designated photo area

Capture a memorable holiday moment with a photo opportunity with Santa Claus.

TikTok+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Lights

Arrive before dusk to see the train ride transition into the full light display. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and getting there early before 5 PM helps avoid the worst traffic and lines. TikTokReddit

Budgeting for the Sweet Stuff

While train and carousel rides are a steal at $3, the country store's old-fashioned candy can be pricey. Consider enjoying the lights and rides, then grabbing snacks elsewhere if on a tight budget. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, early evening
Why
Fewer crowds, better experience
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, before 5 PM
Why
Beat the rush and traffic
Crowd
Medium
When
After dusk
Why
Lights are most vibrant
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come with us to Meadow Lights in Benson, NC🎄🍬🚂 #CapCut #meadowlights #bensonnc #christmaslights #christmastrain
@morgannnbrooke
771 likes • 21.2K views

🎯 Arrive Before Dark

Catch the transition from dusk to dark for the full light show magic on the train! TikTokReddit

🎟️ Buy Tickets Early

Purchase your tickets before getting in line to save time and hassle. Reddit

Only $3 a person. The Meadow Lights The Original old fashioned Christmas tradition. The largest and oldest Christmas attraction in Eastern North Carolina!!! I recommend getting the hot cocoa too! It was very good. #nc #christmaslights
@ambermoss60
77 likes • 2.1K views
The largest and oldest Christmas attraction in Eastern North Carolina opens tomorrow Nov. 22nd! Meadow Lights is in Benson, NC and not only has a train ride through lights but also one of the best selections of old fashioned candy! 🎄 Open Nov. 22nd - Dec. 31st, 2024 ⏰ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm 💰 Train Ride $3 per person, Carousel $3 per person, Visit Santa for free, Pictures are $8 #nc #nctripping #no...
@nctripping
273 likes • 10.8K views

🧥 Dress Warmly

It gets chilly! Layers are your friend for a comfortable outdoor experience. Reddit

🚗 Plan for Traffic

Expect significant traffic, especially on weekends. Be patient and follow directions. Reddit

Meadow Lights in Benson, NC outside of Raleigh is one of my all-time favorite Christmas things! The last time I went was when I was 17 while visiting family, and it’s so special that now I get to take my own family 🥹 experiencing it through the eyes of my children is so precious. I love all of the Christmas things near our home here in South Carolina, but this place in North Carolina will always b...
@itsashleecharpentier
41 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before Dark

Catch the transition from dusk to dark for the full light show magic on the train! TikTokReddit

🎟️ Buy Tickets Early

Purchase your tickets before getting in line to save time and hassle. Reddit

🧥 Dress Warmly

It gets chilly! Layers are your friend for a comfortable outdoor experience. Reddit

🚗 Plan for Traffic

Expect significant traffic, especially on weekends. Be patient and follow directions. Reddit

🍬 Candy Budget

The candy store is a highlight, but prices can add up quickly. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Meadow Lights is a beloved, long-standing Christmas attraction offering affordable rides and a nostalgic candy store. While many praise its festive atmosphere and family-friendly appeal, some reviews note issues with food quality, pricing in the store, and traffic management. Reddit+2

"This place was lots of fun! They have a great store where you can buy lots of candy. They offer train rides for $3 dollars a person and carousel rides for $3. Buy your tickrts begore getting in line! They also have a snack bar that had corn dogs and pizza and some fried sandwiches like bologna or ham as well as hot drinks like coffee and hot chocolate and sodas. Dress warmly because it is cold outside!"

Anna Slawter

"Haven’t been since I was younger, I decided to take my son here tonight and honestly was disappointed with it. We expected the train ride to start AFTER dark but they started the train ride early.. before dusk.. so kind of hard to see the lights. There was a few light displays that had lots of lights out and were not functioning. The price of the train $3 is fairly reasonable though for the length. Hot chocolate is $2.00! Should be way less in my opinion. We went to the country store and everything was WAY overpriced… $6 for a small bag of chocolate peanuts. It was confusing on where to checkout as well.

The parking was good for us (got there early before 5) but leaving there was HORRIBLE traffic direction. You have to pay attention or you will get run over. Not to mention having traffic wait in the man road to enter."

Daniel West

"Meadow Lights has been a traditional staple in my family's life since I was a kid! However, a lot has changed since then! We drove 40 minutes to arrive at the Meadow Lights. I will say, it's hard to beat $3.00 train and carousel rides for the kids, minus the train sound system being broken and the lack of "Christmas Music, " making the whole light show experience definitely a "Silent Night." The lines are not distinguished clearly, so if you go plan for a weekday(Monday- Thursday) and arrive at opening time! The Food is not recommended, corn dog was soggy, when it should have some crunch in the bun, hot chocolate was good but $2.00 for about a 3-4 oz cup, pizza is personal pan the size of an adult palm with cheese microwaved off(definitely not worth any amount of money). If you need to eat, either go with your safe bet of pre-packaged chips and soda or eat before you go and save your money! Lastly, the general store has a multitude of candy, but will run you about $5.00 per ziploc bag, it's not terribly priced but could use a better up keep and selection is on repeat. As a general store, more should be offered! Bathrooms located in general store are larger, more private and warm. Outdoor bathroom selection includes multiple port-o-pottys or a bathroom in the train station area that is semi-private, stall doors are not quite covered half-way, outdoors(Cold), and only cold running water(understandable for cost, but very cold on chillier nights). One photo op of Santa is tucked away near the General Store, and one wooden photo op by the train station. Otherwise, you have concluded your trip within an hour, unless busy(very busy on weekends). My family and I went because of the memories and nostalgia, but I'm not sure the "Joy," was felt any longer. Positive Shout Outs: Customer Service of Cashier's, Train Representative and Ticket Booth were "Amazing!" The Lights on the right side as you drive into the Meadow Parking lot are beautiful and tell an incredible "Truth," of Christmas. The left side isn't displaying much at this time. It seems time has been hard on this location, than uplifting. Thank you for the memories past!"

Patricia Allen-Valadez

What People Like

Affordable train & carousel rides
Nostalgic candy store
Extensive light displays

What People Dislike

Overpriced store items
Inconsistent food quality
Heavy traffic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Meadow Lights is located in Benson, NC, accessible via Exit 334 off I-40. Many visitors drive from the Raleigh area. TikTokReddit

Yes, parking is available on-site. Arriving early, especially before 5 PM, can help secure a spot and avoid the worst traffic. Reddit

Take Exit 334 off I-40. The attraction is a well-known holiday destination in Eastern North Carolina. Reddit

It's a popular spot, especially during the holiday season. Follow signs for Benson, NC, and look for holiday traffic. TikTok

Absolutely! Meadow Lights is a popular day trip destination from Raleigh, NC, offering a festive evening out. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Train rides and carousel rides are affordably priced at $3 per person. TikTokReddit

Tickets can be purchased at the attraction. It's recommended to buy them before getting in line to save time. Reddit

Meadow Lights is typically open from November 22nd to December 31st, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. TikTok

Advance booking is not usually required, but purchasing tickets before queuing is advised to streamline your entry. Reddit

The current pricing of $3 per ride is considered very reasonable and affordable for families. Reddit+1

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Enjoy a train ride through light displays, carousel rides, visit Santa, and explore the old-fashioned candy store. TikTokReddit

Yes, the train ride is a highlight, offering a magical journey through the lights for a reasonable price. Reddit+1

Weekdays, especially Monday through Thursday, and arriving right at opening time (5 PM) are best for fewer crowds. Reddit

It's best to arrive before dusk to experience the transition as the lights come alive during the train ride. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available in the general store and at the train station area, including some port-o-potties. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Concessions include hot chocolate, pizza, corn dogs, and fried sandwiches. TikTokReddit

Reviews are mixed; some find the hot chocolate good, while others describe items like corn dogs as soggy and overpriced. Reddit

Hot chocolate is typically around $2.00 for a small cup. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are dining options in Benson, NC, and it's recommended to eat before or after your visit to save money. TikTokReddit

While not explicitly stated, bringing pre-packaged snacks like chips and soda is a common suggestion to manage costs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The train ride offers continuous light displays. There are also specific Santa photo ops and wooden cutouts. TikTokReddit

Yes, the train ride provides a moving backdrop of lights, perfect for capturing festive moments. TikTok

After dark is ideal for capturing the full brilliance of the Christmas lights. Reddit

While not specified, the focus is on family enjoyment. Professional shoots might require special arrangements. TikTok

The lights on the right side of the parking lot are noted as particularly beautiful and telling a Christmas story. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Meadow Lights is a fantastic destination for families, offering a classic Christmas experience that kids adore. The affordable train and carousel rides are huge hits, providing hours of entertainment. TikTokReddit+1 The old-fashioned candy store is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, allowing children to pick out their favorite nostalgic treats. TikTokReddit

To ensure a smooth family outing, aim for a weekday visit to minimize wait times and consider arriving early to catch the lights as they turn on. Reddit Dressing the kids in warm layers is crucial for comfort. While the food options are available, bringing some of your own snacks can be a good strategy for picky eaters or to manage costs. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Meadow Lights offers excellent value, particularly with its $3 train and carousel rides, making it an affordable holiday outing. TikTokReddit+1 While the country store's candy can be pricey, focusing on the rides and the spectacular light displays provides a rich experience without breaking the bank. TikTokReddit

To maximize savings, consider eating before you arrive or packing your own snacks and drinks. Reddit Visiting on a weekday will also help you avoid potential weekend crowds and associated traffic delays, saving you time and stress. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Meadow Lights offers a vibrant canvas of holiday cheer. The train ride provides a unique perspective, allowing you to capture the expansive light displays as you move through the grounds. TikTok+1 The best time for capturing the brilliance of the lights is after dark, when they are at their most luminous. Reddit

Look for opportunities to photograph the festive train, the carousel in action, and the various themed light installations. TikTok While there are designated Santa photo ops, the entire landscape is a picturesque backdrop for capturing the magic of Christmas. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Meadow Lights Experience: Nostalgia and Modern Twists

Meadow Lights has been a cherished holiday tradition for families in Eastern North Carolina for years. It's known as the largest and oldest Christmas attraction in the region, offering a nostalgic, old-fashioned Christmas experience. TikTok+1 Visitors often return year after year, drawn by the memories and the unique charm of the place. TikTok+1

The core attractions include a festive train ride that winds through over 30 acres of light displays, a classic carousel, and a visit with Santa. TikTok The country store is a major draw, packed with a wide selection of old-fashioned candies that evoke childhood memories. TikTokReddit While the core experience remains, some reviews suggest that certain aspects, like the train's sound system or food quality, have seen better days, leading to a mixed sentiment for some long-time visitors. Reddit

Despite some critiques, the affordability of the rides ($3 per person) and the overall festive atmosphere continue to make Meadow Lights a popular destination. Reddit+1 It's a place that aims to capture the simple joys of the holiday season, offering a magical evening for families looking to create new traditions or revisit old ones. TikTokReddit

Navigating Meadow Lights: Tips for a Smooth Visit

To make the most of your Meadow Lights visit, strategic planning is key. Arriving before dusk allows you to experience the train ride as daylight fades and the lights begin to illuminate the grounds, creating a magical transition. TikTokReddit Weekdays, particularly Monday through Thursday, are highly recommended for avoiding the significant crowds that can accumulate on weekends. Reddit

Traffic can be a major factor, especially during peak times. Visitors report heavy congestion upon arrival and departure, so patience and attentiveness to traffic direction are essential. Reddit Purchasing tickets before joining the queue for rides can streamline your entry process. Reddit For those looking to save money, consider enjoying the lights and rides, and then dining elsewhere, as some reviews indicate that food and candy prices in the store can be quite high. TikTokReddit

Dress in warm layers, as the outdoor setting can be quite cold, especially on chilly North Carolina evenings. Reddit While the main attractions are the lights and rides, the country store offers a unique shopping experience for nostalgic candy lovers. TikTokReddit Bathrooms are available, including options within the general store and at the train station, though outdoor facilities may be basic. Reddit

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