Imagine your child’s excitement when you combine a visit to see Santa with the thrill of a festive train ride! These Santa train experiences will undoubtedly create lasting memories you’ll all treasure for years to come!
Climb aboard your Santa train for a real adventure this Christmas, because these trips include elves, Mrs Claus, storytelling, singing, games, and more than a few treats before meeting Santa himself.
Festive Santa Train Rides
The Santa Express Train from Mullingar to Longford
Dates: December 9th & 10th 2023 (2 trains daily)
Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves will be joining all the families on the Santa Express, a real actual train!, from Mullingar to Longford for a fun festive train ride this December.
This train journey will be fully accessible and there will also be a sensory carriage for those with additional needs.
All proceeds raised will be going to the 9th Westmeath Scouts to support their fundraising for 2023. Kids under 3 go free.
For more details and to book your tickets, click here.
Santa Express at Wicklow Christmas Market
Dates: Selected dates from November 18th to December 17th 2023
A day at the Wicklow Christmas Market would not be complete without a visit to see the big man himself, Santa Claus! The Santa Express will transport you and your family to the North Pole and to the home of Santa and Mrs Claus.
Get ready for a fun ride to the North Pole where you will journey thorough the new Tunnel of Lights. After your train ride you’ll be met by a team of elves, who will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. Laugh along as you watch the mayhem and shenanigans of the fun filled show!
Next, it will be time for a visit with Mrs Claus. Listen to her read her favourite Christmas tale, and lead a sing-along for everyone’s entertainment.
Then of course, it’s time for a visit with Santa! He will be there to meet all of the girls and boys who will get to personally tell him what’s on their Christmas list. Families will visit Santa as a group, and each child will receive a special Christmas gift from Santa Claus himself. Don’t forget to post your letter at Santa’s official post box!
The Santa Experience at Oakfield Park, Donegal
Dates: November 29th to December 23rd 2023.
Returning for 2023 is The Santa Express! Travel on a real train to see Father Christmas along with the elf family.
Meet Mrs Claus in her snuggly cabin, where she will host regular performances of a puppet show along with her beloved naughty puppets. Watch them get up to mischief.
Children will then get to meet Santa and receive a special gift. They will get to play elf games and everyone will receive a complimentary hot drink!
Santa’s Train Adventure at Rathwood, Carlow
Dates: November 19th to December 24th 2023
Santa’s Train Adventure at Rathwood runs on selected dates during November and December.
This year, visit Santa in his big top! Board the train and journey through the enchanted forest where you will see Mrs Claus and the Elves. Arrive at Santa’s Big Red Top for some singing, dancing and interactive family fun before making your way to his workshop where you will receive a toy.
The Santa Express at Waterford Suir Valley Railway
Dates: Select dates from November 26th to December 23rd 2023
Set off on an exciting journey on a real train beside Waterford Greenway and by the majestic River Suir to meet Mrs Claus and friends in the Magic Wood. The Fairies in the Magic Wood have been busy making the magic dust that will help Santa find your house on Christmas night – and Mrs Claus has some for every child!
The Santa Express train journey and visit with Mrs Claus friends in the Magic Wood! The fairies have been busy making magic fairy dust to help Santa find your house on Christmas Eve and everyone will receive some to take home.
Afterwards enjoy a private visit with Santa and receive a wonderful, quality toy. Be sure to have the camera ready as there will be loads of photo opportunities!
The Santa Special
Dates: Select dates from November 25th to December 17th 2023
The Santa Special is a return journey by vintage train, with a visit to see Santa.
Departing from a very special platform in Belfast, the journey take approx 35 minutes and you will get to meet Santa and take photos with him. The elves will be there too with selection boxes for everyone. Each child will also receive an activity pack as they board with a special letter to decorate and post to Santa when you arrive at the station!
Amber Springs Santa Train Experience, Wexford
Dates: Select dates from November 17th to December 23rd 2023
With a little Ho Ho Ho and more than a sprinkling of Christmas magic, the Amber Springs Santa Train Experience is back!
Travelling aboard The Amber Express, following the glimmering lights and sparkling trees to the Amber Christmas Village. Once at the village, you will disembark the Amber Express to explore the village with your family.
Walking around the village you will be able to enjoy a little festive treat and see all the busy little elves working away before going to have your own personal visit with Santa!
About the Author: Emily Manning
