When the County Court met in March of 1974 a motion was made to purchase the 104 acre tract known as the Baddour Estate. This acquisition of property was the beginnings of the great James E. Ward Agricultural and Community Center. Additional land purchased over the years brings the total acreage to 267. The center is named for James E. Ward who came to Wilson County in 1936 as the Extension Agent, where he served the county until his retirement in 1972. His leadership and commitment to the people of Wilson County improved agriculture in this area greatly.

For more than 13 years the James E. Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon, Tennessee has hosted a Christmas tradition. The Festival Of Lights is a driving tour that includes hundreds of thousands of lights, animation for the young and old, beautiful lighted scenes, and many more displays that delight the eyes and impart a holiday spirit for all to share. Many children each year love to see the Grinch in Fiddlers Grove Jail, Jesus in the manger, a post office box to drop off a letter to Santa and a million lights on display without leaving the car.

The Festival Of Lights drive through Christmas Tour is a magical wonderland, covering several acres including Fiddlers Grove. A drive through Fiddlers Grove is a step back in time that will enchant you while enticing you to remember days of yore while you view over 40 village houses all lit up for Christmas.

Don't miss this special winter display which is viewable from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening in December.

Bring your family this year and join thousands of other visitors from Wilson and surrounding counties who have added the annual Festival Of Lights to their list of "must do" memorable holiday traditions.

This facility offers a unique opportunity for a wide variety of activities. From wedding receptions, family reunions, birthday parties, car shows, to camping, we have a place for your activity.  view facilities and pricing