MOST READ TRAVEL
The Napa Valley Wine Train is one of those rare experiences that reminds you of the golden days of train travel. It features restored vintage Pullman rail cars and brings travelers from downtown Napa to St. Helena stopping at some of the best wineries along the way. But for the holidays, it transforms into a kid-friendly experience: Santa Train.
Instead of vineyard hopping, this themed train will take passengers on an interactive journey from the train station to Santa’s workshop in the North Pole. Santa acts as the conductor, and some of his famous friends join along as entertainment and crew. And the kids are part of the action too.
As the story goes, Jolly the Bear was accidentally left behind at the train station, and the children are in charge of helping him get back to Santa’s workshop in time for Christmas and to become an official Santa Train Conductor Bear. While on the important mission, the kids will get to enjoy games, sing-alongs, hot cocoa, and freshly baked cookies. Once at the North Pole, they will be given a toy Jolly Bear ornament as a special thank you for their help.
Plus, being part of the experience can help give back to the community. New this year, the Napa Valley Wine Train will be partnering with the Community Action of Napa Valley Food Bank and encourages guests to bring canned and boxed food during their visit. The Wine Train will also donate 100 tickets to local foster children through the Napa County Family & Foster Parent Association.
“The Santa Train brings so much joy and cheer to our valley during the holiday season, so we’re looking forward to welcoming locals and visitors alike for this special experience,” said Scott Goldie, co-CEO of the Napa Valley Wine Train. “We’re excited to work with the Community Action of Napa Valley Food Bank this year and continue to welcome local foster children aboard as supporting the community is a huge priority for the train.”
The Santa Train will run from November 19 to December 26.
