Every year the N.C. State Fair thrills people of all ages and backgrounds from across the state for 11 exciting days. Fairgoers get the chance to enjoy exciting rides and delicious new foods. The State Fair is also a time to celebrate N.C. agriculture and the hardworking families who make it our state’s leading industry.
Farm Family of the Day, sponsored by Tractor Supply Co., is a program that recognizes one standout farm family each day of the N.C. State Fair. To honor these families’ accomplishments and contributions to North Carolina agriculture, they are awarded tickets to attend the fair on a day of their choosing, where they will be recognized through PA announcements and signs on the fairgrounds.
Today, the N.C. State Fair and Tractor Supply Co. congratulate Jordan Lake Farms of Chatham County!
This family run farm, operated by Diana and Byron May, has been bringing Christmas cheer to their community every holiday season for the past 30 years! Their first Christmas trees were planted back in 1994, and since opening their doors they have thrilled those in the holiday spirit for years.
The family is incredibly excited to be recognized at the fair this year and they can’t wait to have the chance to meet some of the other farm families from across the state.
“We’re honored to be selected as a farm family,” stated Byron, “To be recognized as a farm family as one of the many wonderful farm families in this state going into our 31st year of operation.”
In addition to selling Christmas trees, the farm also sells seasonal flowers in the summer, operates an event pavilion, and offers farm stays as well as other agritourism opportunities.
“All farmers work hard, but Christmas tree farmers put faith into practice,” wrote Katie Fisher who nominated the family to be honored. She shared that Jordan Lake Farms not only produces beautiful Christmas trees, but they also provide families with a holiday experience which will stay with them for years to come. Buying the farm was a leap of faith for the May couple—one that has paid off tremendously as the farm continues to grow each year.
Our N.C. farmers are essential to the economy and the life of everyday citizens. For many people they’ll never get the chance to interact with farmers or learn more about the work that goes into agriculture. The May family hopes to bridge this gap through the work that they do.
The farm is a staple in the local community. Aside from being many families’ go-to stop for their Christmas centerpieces, the farm also offers the surrounding area freshly harvested products. They’re active year-round selling both on-site as well as at nearby farmers markets such as the Apex Farmers Market. Additionally, they also host a variety of educational workshops to teach interested visitors about the state’s number one industry.
“Running a farm is a full-time endeavor. We’re working every day all year round in some aspect. I think a big thing for us is just being outside and being one with nature,” Byron shared.
The May family are long-time lovers of the N.C. State Fair as well! They love seeing all the agriculture exhibits on display each year and enjoy creating memories with friends and family across the fairgrounds. Their go-to spots each year are the Heritage Circle and the decorated Christmas tree competition inside of Dorton Arena.
“The food. All of it,” Byron laughed when asked about the family’s favorite part of the fair, “We love all of the unique new items that they come up with every year.”
Looking forward, the Mays hope to continue to uplift spirits and help families decorate for the holidays and learn more about agriculture.
“We hope to expand into doing more agritourism to go along with our Christmas trees and flowers,” Byron shared, “We want to have more people come out and experience a farm in a different capacity.”
Additionally, the May’s daughter, Khoury, was born on the farm. They hope that in the future she will take over and keep the farm going for generations to come.
Congratulations to Jordan Lake Christmas Tree Farm! Look out for our next featured farm family tomorrow!