CSX Santa Train to stop for hurricane victims; other railroads to run holiday trains

Several railroads this week announced holiday train stops as part of charity efforts for local communities.

CSX announced yesterday its Santa Train will make a special stop in Erwin, Unicoi County, Tennessee, on Nov. 21 to bring area residents affected by Hurricane Helene the Santa Train's usual toys and essential gifts and a one-time only event featuring a performance by singer Drew Holcomb.

CSX's annual CSX Santa Train makes over a dozen stops in Appalachia to distribute over 15 tons of toys and essentials to local residents. The train stops are made in partnership with Appalachian Power, Food City, the Kingsport Chamber in Tennessee and Soles4Souls.

Meanwhile, Chicago commuter railroad Metra run its Holiday Trains on six rail lines during four Saturdays in November and December. Metra will donate tickets to children from Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. Trains on the Metra Electric, BNSF, Milwaukee District North, Rock Island, Union Pacific Northwest, and Union Pacific North lines will be decorated and visited by holiday characters. 

In San Diego, North County Transit District’s (NCTD) Coaster Holiday Express service operate two weekends in December. During its stops, NCTD will collect donations for the North County Food Bank. Santa Claus and carolers will be on board for singing and storytelling.