Watch The Arkansas Countryside Whirl By On This Unforgettable Christmas Train
By Carol Ann Carson|Updated on November 01, 2022(Originally published December 11, 2020)
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
NOTE: This event is not taking place in 2022 and we will not be updating this article at the present time. However, if you are looking for more holiday activities in Arkansas this season, check out our list of the best Christmas light displays in the state.
The McGarrah Family has added yet another seasonal activity to their farm – the Southern Lights. We were already delighted with their summertime berry picking and fall corn maze but this newest addition is simply enchanting! Their Rivercrest Orchard location in Fayetteville has turned into a magical spot filled with lights, music, and even a train ride! Let’s board the Rivercrest Express and tour this beautifully decorated countryside.
The McGarrah Family is no stranger to farming, in fact, the multi-generational farm has been around since 1824! However, their newest endeavor may just be our favorite.
Their newest location will be the central hub for all their seasonal activities from strawberry fields to corn mazes. The McGarrah Farms Rivercrest Orchards in Fayetteville will have plenty of to-do's in 2021 but today we're focused on their special Christmas event - Southern Lights.
This is the first year for the Southern Lights and it has started off strong!
The lights and magic are sprawled out over the orchard's 100+ acres in Fayetteville's southeastern countryside. This is the perfect event that balances family-friendly activities, social-distanced safety, and plenty of holiday cheer.
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Before boarding our featured part of the attraction, be sure to see the rest of the farm!
The main barn has drool-worthy concessions including kettle corn, donuts, hot drinks, and s'more kits. Grab a blanket and listen to live music on the spacious covered patio. There's also a play area for kids and the most adorable bunny village (population about 7).
Please keep social distancing in mind so this event can continue to run smoothly and safely. Masks are required in any area where six feet of space can't be maintained.
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The Rivercrest Express will tour you through a dazzling light show and even to the North Pole.
The four-car train takes families around the countryside and pass multiple light displays. The halfway point of the tour is a very special stop - the North Pole!
They'll accompany you along the train ride through the farmland. Santa and Mrs. Claus are quite busy this season so be sure to come between 6 - 9 PM to see them!
Once you've arrived at the North Pole, kids can talk to Santa.
The McGarrahs have set up Santa's throne and accompanying bench so kids can safely talk about their wish lists. Mrs. Claus will be handing out candy as well!
After your train ride, there's still more to do on the farm.
Southern Lights will be open Thursdays - Sundays from 5 - 10 PM until December 23rd. Santa will be at the North Pole from 6 - 9 PM. Tickets are $8 (ages 2 and under are free) and can be purchased on McGarrah Farms Rivercrest Orchard website
. You can see more pictures of the event by following their Facebook page.
Will you be boarding the train this year? Share your favorite McGarrah Farm memory with us in the comments below!
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