Danbury Railway Museum Bringing Back Its Popular Santa Train This Holiday Season

According to a release from the Danbury Railway Museum, Santa Claus is getting ready to climb aboard a vintage train and make another holiday appearance in Danbury. The museum's annual Santa Train is returning for several weekends in November and December, giving families a chance to experience a little Christmas magic while checking out some local railroad history.

Known as the Snow Clipper, the First Gift Express will operate on November 28 and 29, December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, and Monday, December 21. The museum will be open from 1:30 p.m. until 9 p.m., with trains departing at 2, 3:30, 5, 6:30, and an additional 8 p.m. departure on Saturdays.

The experience begins inside the museum's beautifully decorated 1903 train station, where families can enjoy model railroads, holiday activities, exhibits, and a coloring station where children can write letters to Santa. Make sure they include their mailing address because apparently Santa is pretty good about writing back.

Danbury Railway Museum

Guests will then climb aboard a restored 1953 Budd Rail Diesel Car for a short ride through the historic railyard. After returning to the station, families will have time to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus without feeling rushed. Santa will also hand out the first gifts of Christmas.

Danbury Railway Museum

Parents can bring a pre-wrapped present for their child or choose one through the museum's online gift menu. Gift wrapping and batteries are included with the online option.

After meeting Santa, families can take a stroll through the railyard, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and grab a freshly baked cookie. The later train rides will operate after dark, offering a chance to see the railyard illuminated for the holidays.

Danbury Railway Museum

Tickets are $30 per person for everyone age two and older. Reservations are required, and this event sold out last year, so waiting until the last minute probably isn't the best strategy. There will be no walk-up ticket sales.

You can find the schedule, gift information, and reservations here.

The Danbury Railway Museum is located at 120 White Street in Danbury and is operated by volunteers as a nonprofit dedicated to preserving railroad history.