An inside look at self-made Raleigh entrepreneur Lin Honeycutt, who turned farm fields into bright ideas and decades of service into a steady legacy.
How One Man Built a Business Around Transmission Fluid, Tobacco Fields, and Christmas Lights
Most people know Fieldstream Farm for the dazzling mile-long Christmas light show that draws thousands of visitors every year. But behind the two million bulbs and the winding drive-through trail is someone who prefers hard work to the spotlight.
Lin Honeycutt is a lifelong entrepreneur from Raleigh, North Carolina. He’s also a farmer, church leader, former mechanic, and volunteer of more than 30 years. His businesses—The Holiday Light Store, Fieldstream Farm, and previously, Honeycutt Transmission—are grounded in local values and personal grit.
“I’ve been self-employed for as long as I can remember,” Lin says. “No backup plan. Just work hard and don’t give up.”
Starting With a Toolbox and a $10K Award
Lin didn’t go the traditional route. Right after earning an Associate’s Degree in Auto Mechanics, he launched Honeycutt Transmission. The shop became one of Raleigh’s best-known auto repair businesses. In fact, Lin was once recognized as one of the top 10 mechanics in America, receiving a $10,000 award—a rare nod in a blue-collar trade.
“It wasn’t about the money,” he says. “I just wanted to run a clean, honest shop. That’s how I was raised.”
After over 30 years, he sold the business in 2019. “I knew it was time,” he reflects. “But I still miss turning a wrench every now and then.”
Building Fieldstream Farm From the Ground Up
Around 2010, Lin expanded his energy into a different kind of work—farming and events. He started Fieldstream Farm, a multi-use property where he grows hay and 8 acres of tobacco, keeps 50+ chickens, and rents out event space for weddings, reunions, and memorials.
“We didn’t start with any big plan,” he explains. “We just saw what the land could do and grew into it.”
Now, the farm hosts over 50 events a year, many of them family-oriented or faith-based. “People come here to make memories. We try to give them a place that feels right.”
Turning Christmas Lights Into a Full-Time Job
Perhaps the most public part of Lin’s legacy is his role as the owner of The Holiday Light Store, which opened in 2003. What began as a seasonal side business is now a nationally recognized Christmas lighting store that supports the Fieldstream Farm Christmas Light Show—a $20-per-car event with traffic backed up around the block each December.
“There were folks who laughed when I said I was getting into Christmas lights,” Lin says. “But now it’s one of the most successful things I’ve done.”
The show features synchronized lights, themed displays, and a route that’s become a holiday tradition for families across the Raleigh-Durham area. “I wanted something wholesome people could bring their kids to. That’s what this is about.”
30 Years in Service—and Still Cooking for His Church
Beyond his businesses, Lin is deeply rooted in faith and volunteer work. He served as Regional Coordinator for the North Carolina Baptist Men (NCBM) for 19 years, and as Brotherhood Director for the Raleigh Baptist Association for 17 years. He retired from both in 2021, due to health concerns, but not before helping with disaster relief across 20 states and 4 countries.
He’s been on-site after Hurricane Katrina, and when tornadoes hit Wake County in 2011. He’s also built homes and churches overseas.
“I can’t travel as much anymore,” Lin admits. “But I still cook for the church every week. That’s my way of showing up.”
He’s held almost every role a church offers: deacon, Sunday school teacher, choir member, soloist, committee chair, and head cook. “Church isn’t just Sundays,” he says. “It’s how you live during the week.”
What Keeps Him Going
These days, Lin spends time with his wife of over 30 years, Cindy, their two daughters, and three grandchildren. When he’s not working on the farm, he enjoys collecting cars, skiing, and managing the seasonal business.
“I’m not a millionaire,” he says plainly. “But I’m successful. I live life to the fullest.”
He supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and continues to be involved in charitable efforts when possible. “Giving back isn’t optional,” Lin says. “It’s just part of life.”
Lin Honeycutt didn’t build his reputation through branding, viral videos, or polished marketing. He built it by showing up, year after year, for his family, community, and faith. Whether it was in a transmission shop, on a mission trip, or setting up two million lights, he kept doing the work.
“The only secret I know,” Lin says, “is to keep going. Even when people doubt you. Even when it’s hard. Especially then.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Fieldstream Farm and The Holiday Light Store?
Lin Honeycutt owns both. He has operated The Holiday Light Store since 2003 and Fieldstream Farm since around 2010.
Is the Fieldstream Farm Christmas light show free?
No, it costs $20 per car (up to 8 people). It features over 2 million lights.
What kind of work has Lin done with the church?
He has served as a deacon, teacher, choir member, and mission volunteer, and was a leader in both NCBM and the Raleigh Baptist Association.
Does Fieldstream Farm host events year-round?
Yes, including weddings, birthday parties, and celebrations of life. It also functions as a working farm.
