The Rock Ranch becomes popular Christmas stop

THE ROCK -- Thousands of people this year are finding respite from the hustle and bustle of Christmas in rural Upson County.

The Rock Ranch, about 45 miles northwest of Macon, is putting on its Country Christmas in Lights. The working cattle ranch is decked out in Christmas lights and has Santa Claus on hand.

Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy owned the ranch a few years ago when he saw Christmas lights on sale after the holidays. He bought six tractor-trailer loads and started allowing tours of the farm over Christmas.

It has gradually grown since then, said Jennifer Symmes, marketing manager of the ranch. In years past it has mostly been driving tours through the ranch that allow people to see the lights. The Country Christmas Lights event, held on certain days in December, includes wagon rides through the farm, Santa and a Santa's workshop for children.

On Saturday night, a crowd of about 1,000 people came to the ranch. One of those was Lisa Doubleday, of Warner Robins, and her 5-year-old son, Wyatt. She had been to the ranch for fall events, but this was her first time at Christmas.

"It's been great," she said. "We have enjoyed the lights."

Wyatt was enjoying some of the antique tractors at Truett's Barn, where Santa was taking Christmas wishes.

William and Amanda Threadgill, of Winder, were there with their children and some friends. It was their first trip. They said they were especially impressed with Santa.

"He's the real deal," Amanda said.

The full Country Christmas in Lights event has only one more day, which is Monday, with general admission $5 person. It was going to be held Tuesday and Wednesday as well but those dates have been canceled due to forecasts of rain.

People can still drive through to see the farm's Christmas lights each night until Dec. 31. For the drive through, admission is $5 a car.

The ranch is a working 1,500-acre cattle farm that is also an agritourism business. It offers year around activities.

For more information go to www.therockranch.com.

This story was originally published December 19, 2015 at 9:10 PM with the headline "The Rock Ranch becomes popular Christmas stop ."