28 December 2020
BY EARL VAUGHAN JR.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY BURNHAM
watch over the ducks and even a camel named Abdul, who is an integral
part of the Festival of Lights Nativity Scene.
"When we bought the property three years ago, there was nothing
there," Fred Surgeon said. "Now it's a mini little city there."
e Surgeons also have added a working sawmill, two large ponds
and a log cabin that serves as a getaway for them. Since late summer, the
Surgeons and staff members have been busy adding thousands of lights
and lighted displays to the property. eir Festival of Lights opened in late
November and is scheduled to run through Dec. 30.
"My roots come from farming, but for 20 years, I didn't do anything
in farming and wasn't looking for land," Fred Surgeon said. "Anita loves
horses, so I figured I'd buy some land and get a few horses. It's really
grown, but everything that's out there we had to build. It's a hobby, but it's
something we want to share with the community."
e Surgeons have opened the ranch to the public for tours, weddings
and family reunions, but due to COVID social distancing restrictions,
the Festival of Lights is a drive-through event, at least for now. Cost of
admission is $7 per person for up to three adults, with discounts for
larger groups.
In a year like this one, a little more light and whimsy can't hurt. And
the giant nutcracker at the entrance to Sweet Valley Farm is ready to greet
everyone. For more information, go to sweetvalleyranchnc.com.
