Exit 95 on I-95 – Where Santa Stops!

Johnston County is located on I-95 halfway through North Carolina. It is an excellent place to stop and find refuge from the road for a while. There’s retail therapy, comfortable hotels, local dining, and interesting attractions. During your annual trek south this Autumn, or on your way to spend time with family for the holidays, think about stopping in Johnston County (JoCo to the locals). Johnston County towns along I-95 exits include Kenly, Selma, Smithfield, Four Oaks, and Benson. It may be Fall, but the weather is still pleasant in JoCo. Enjoy exploring our many historic downtown areas just off I-95 as you drive through.

Shop Where Santa Shops!

Find great bargains for everyone on your list at Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, located at Exit 95 on I-95. The outlets offer name brand stores like Coach, Nine West, Nike, and Polo at discounted prices. Surprising people with a quality gift they’ll love is even more satisfying when you know you got a bargain on it. Find Pandora charms, Simply Southern clothing, yeti coolers, and more at DeWayne’s in Selma. DeWayne’s is just minutes from the Carolina Premium Outlets and also has a section of their store dedicated to Christmas decorations all year long. Combined, these two places offer a shopping destination perfect for getting all of your Christmas list checked off at one time.

Explore a Little More

If you have the time to turn your retail excursion into a real experience, check out what Johnston County has to offer along I-95 beyond our excellent shopping selection. Enjoy a show at the American Music Jubilee in Selma, Exit 97. The Jubilee combines music, comedy, and family-friendly fun. During the holidays, the show takes-on a Christmas theme. It’s an evening of southern hospitality, great American music, and side-splitting comedy that will delight audiences of every age. Add a couple of surprise guests, like Santa and his friends, and this show is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit!

A touch of Branson and a touch of Myrtle Beach, American Music Jubilee includes a ten-member cast that skillfully combine comedy skits with traditional and modern Christmas music. The 2017 Christmas season shows start November 4th and will run most days through December 19th with a matinee at 1:45pm and an evening show at 6:45pm. Remember to make the most out of your Down Home Christmas Show experience by exploring Selma before or after the show. Selma has over 10 antique and specialty stores in the downtown area and is often called the antique capital of North Carolina.

A Merry & Bright Experience

You can also stop in at Meadow Lights near Benson, Exit 79. It is one of the largest and oldest Christmas light shows in Eastern North Carolina. Meadow displays lights on over 30 acres and operates a train ride through 10 plus acres. They are a family owned and operated business that started more than 40 years ago. “The Old Country Store” is one of the largest candy stores in the state specializing in Christmas and old fashion candy, carrying over 300 varieties. Meadow lights is a tradition for families in Johnston County and all over North Carolina; if you’re traveling along I-95 during the holiday season be sure to make Meadow Lights a holiday tradition of yours. The 2017 season will begin on November 17th.

As you travel I-95, make Johnston County part of the journey. Find the perfect gift and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. For more information on the magic of the holidays in Johnston County visit our website at www.johnstoncountync.org.