Christmas is less than 10 days away. If you still need to get yourself in the Christmas spirit, a trip to Lu Mil Vineyard’s Festival of Lights, might do the trick.

Lu Mil Vineyard is located in Dublin, N.C., approximately 30 miles outside of Fayetteville. The light show consists of an approximately 40 minute ride on a double-decker bus through the vineyard, which is elaborately decorated with displays of Christmas lights. Holiday music is playing throughout the tour and at several points during the ride, the bus stops as the song playing synchronizes with the twinkling lights.

Some highlights of the show include a patriotic display in honor of America’s men and women serving in the armed forces and a narration and depiction in lights of the story of Jesus’ birth. The cost of the tour is $5 per person and includes a free cup of hot or cold muscadine cider from the gift shop after the tour. The tours last from 6 -10 p.m. through Dec. 23. There are also tours on Dec. 26 and Dec. 27.

I attended the Festival of Lights recently on a Saturday night. There was a crowd, but it was not so busy that I couldn’t get on the second tour for the evening. I was glad that I had worn warm shoes and several layers of clothing because I stood in line outside for about 20 minutes before the bus came for the second tour of the night. I suggest bringing gloves, a hat and a blanket. Patrons can either ride inside the bus or on top. The top has a better view of the lights, but the bottom is warmer.

After the tour, I was more than happy to step inside the Lu Mil gift shop to redeem my free cup of cider. Mr. and Mrs. Claus were sitting in the back of the shop, happy to speak with anyone who wanted to stop and say hello. The gift shop offers a wide selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic ciders and wines as well as jams and jellies. There are unique cider fl avors, such as peach and strawberry, and customers can sample any variety before purchasing. Lu Mil is also currently offering a special Christmas buffet on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights for $10 per person.

The Lu Mil Festival of Lights offers patrons a chance to experience the fun and beauty of Christmas lights at a family-friendly establishment for a reasonable price. Just be sure to bring warm clothing to fully experience the fun.

For more information visit the Web site at www.