For those who live in Statesboro or the surrounding areas, TMT Farm is synonymous with Christmas. Their extensive drive-thru light display winds around their property for two miles and brings joy to kids of all ages. This herculean task is a labor of love for Roy and Deborah Thompson, owners of TMT Farms.
The Thompsons start decorating for TMT Farm Christmas Lights Drive-Thru in October, and the endeavor is a group effort.
“We started decorating about seven weeks ago. We have a large group of folks that are helping us now,” Thompson says.
Approximately 12 volunteers join the Thompsons and their families, increasing their crew to over 20 individuals that make the magic of TMT Farm happen. This includes Roy and Deborah’s son, Tyler, and his wife, Chrissee, and their daughters, Mylee and Harlow.
This year, the Thompsons are trying something new. On December 8, 2023, TMT Farm will be opening to homebound residents only. People who reside in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes will have a special night dedicated to them to avoid the wait times that accompany long car lines.
“I knew that we couldn’t do it when it was open to everyone,” Thompson muses, “so we just decided to close to everyone and invite those that are homebound on the 8th to come out, and we’re hoping that a lot of the facilities that have buses will bring the folks out here.”
Thompson loves the idea of accessibility for people who may not have been able to enjoy the Christmas lights otherwise.
“We’re looking forward to it because we want everybody to be able to see the Christmas lights that want to, but those who can’t drive themselves, I think it’s a great situation that they can now come out and see the Christmas lights,” he shared.
The wait won’t be much longer for the 2023 grand reopening of TMT Farm Christmas Lights Drive-Thru, which opens to the public the next day.
“We will officially open to everyone December the 9th,” Thompson explains.
Earlier this year, Thompson and his wife, Deborah, had their doubts that they would return for another season of spectacular sights; however, after discussing it in depth, the couple decided they would reopen for the 2023 Christmas season.
“We just felt led to continue on so we can continue helping the folks that we help every year,” Thompson says.
The Thompsons do not charge admission to enjoy the Christmas displays, but they ask for donations. They donate over 1,000 pounds of food each season to Christian Social Ministries, and they are hoping this year will be no different.
“We accept all canned goods, and we accept pet food; we accept toys; we accept monetary contributions,” Thompson says.
TMT Farm Christmas Lights Drive-Thru officially opens to the public on December 9, 2023 at 6:00 PM. The farm is located at 16710 Old River Road North, Statesboro, GA, 30461. The last day to enjoy the lights will be December 26, 2023.
Thompson and his family are excited for the upcoming season.
“We want them all to come out and enjoy the lights,” he said.
For more information, visit TMT Farms Christmas Lights Drive-Thru Facebook page or Roy Thompson’s personal Facebook Page.
