As temperatures begin rapidly dropping here in Virginia, locals know that can only mean one thing: the holidays are just around the corner. As frost slowly gathers on windows and lights begin decorating downtown streets, we are slowly but surely getting ready to embrace the season. This year, for something truly magical, you’ll want to hear more about this one-of-a-kind train ride known as the Santa Train. This polar express train ride in Virginia is straight out of a Hallmark movie, and it just may become an annual tradition that your family cherishes.

All aboard! The much-anticipated annual Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Santa Train is back in action, scheduled for another year of holiday memory making.
Fairfax Family Fun
Kids and their parents are invited to take this magical tour, complete with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all of their helpers.
VRE
While this ride is magical for participants of all ages, its main purpose is to inform the passengers of railway safety as part of Operation Lifesaver’s “Look, Listen, and Live” campaign.
The VRE Santa Train/Facebook
The rides last approximately 40 minutes, and there are several VRE Santa Trains operating each year. The two that typically leave from the Fredericksburg Station are called the Dasher Express and the Vixen Express.
Fairfax Family Fun

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During the trip, passengers can expect to receive a paper conductor’s hat along with coloring books and candy canes. Afterwards, there will be a short speech on railway safety policy followed by caroling and sing-a-longs.
VRE
Santa and Mrs. Claus will also make their way to each car, making sure to spread the Christmas cheer to everyone aboard. Photos are more than welcome, but act quickly because these two are on a tight schedule this time of year!
Fairfax Family Fun
At the stations, you’ll be greeted by an enthusiastic crowd, eager to witness these Polar Express Trains and possibly catch a glimpse of St. Nick. Depending on the station, there may be other festive activities to enjoy as well.
bowlmeoverva/YouTube
This event is so fun that it just may become an annual tradition in your own family!
bowlmeoverva/YouTube
Tickets notoriously sell out quickly, so be sure to plan ahead and reserve your seats for this seasonal adventure.
Holidays in the Burg/Facebook
Are you ready to sign up for this year's event? Tickets typically go on sale the Monday before Thanksgiving, and they sell out fast. You can find more information as well as this year's date here.

If you’ve ridden on the VRE Santa Train, please share your experience below! Anyone interested in this festive polar express train ride in Virginia should click here for further details and reservation information.

Looking for more wintertime fun here in Virginia? You’ll love these epic wintertime destinations.

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Polar Express Train Ride In Virginia

Nikki Rhoades | October 20, 2019

What other Christmas train rides can I take in Virginia?

The super cool Santa-themed Christmas train in Virginia is perhaps the biggest and best train ride at this time of year… but there are many other amazing wintertime festivities that the entire family can enjoy! Our state is home to a Christmas cave that immerses visitors in subterranean jolly making, and there are many incredible light displays in the state. There’s so much to love about the holidays in this glorious state – the festivities even extend to local restaurants and shops!

What are the best holiday events in Virginia for families?

Family fun is at the heart of merry making here in the Old Dominion. Locals adore exploring tightly-knit communities bathed in Christmas lights, and families of all sizes take advantage of the snow and aim to spend some time outdoors. Around this season, the man in the big red suit himself makes appearances at local community celebrations, which can be found in abundance. Want to make memories this season, but not sure where to start? Ask your neighbors for event suggestions – there’s so much to do in this pretty state!

Where can I see the best Christmas light displays in Virginia?

For many, the appearance of holiday lights is the biggest Christmas event in Virginia each year. Resorts, residences, and community centers decorate the state in millions of twinkling lights. Busch Gardens even creates its own Christmas Town each year! You’ll find that Christmas cheer abounds in Virginia, particularly in our most scenic and historic communities.

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