Climb aboard for timeless tradition at the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat aboard this year's Santa Special!

Step into the magic of the season with a one-of-a-kind daytime holiday experience! Gather your family and friends and relax aboard beautifully decorated vintage railway cars filled with festive cheer.

As the train rolls along, enjoy the sights, sounds, and warmth of the holidays—and don’t forget your camera! Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special visit to greet every child, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Saturday December 13, 2025

Check in Essex Station Ticket Window: 10:30 am

Excursion: 11:00 am -12:00 pm

$40.00 per person 1st Class Seating / $38.00 per person Coach Seating

By clicking on the ADD TO CART button, you acknowledge you have read and understand the following information: 

1. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time; trains can not be held for late arriving guests.
2. All passengers age 1 and older require a purchased ticket. Children less than 1 year of age may sit on an adult’s lap at no charge however they may not occupy a seat. If you would like a seat for a child under the age of 1, a ticket must be purchased for them. No car seats or strollers are permitted on the train.
3. Ride length is approximately 60 minutes.
4. No refunds or exchanges will be honored once tickets are purchased; all purchases are final.
5. Trains operate in all weather conditions. Railroad reserves right to alter schedules and equipment as necessary. Railroad reserves the right to postpone or cancel excursions in extreme conditions.
6. We are not responsible for travel delays caused by accidents, road closures, road construction, weather, etc. . . . Please use your judgment and allow ample travel time to arrive 30 minutes prior to the departure. Trains will depart on time and cannot be held for late arriving guests.
7. Guests are not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages of their own onto the property or onto the trains. Bags are subject to search and no coolers are permitted. 
8. The Santa Special is G-rated family entertainment with an expectation that all guests will compose themselves in a manner befitting the spirit of the day and the enjoyment for all guests.
9. Parents remain responsible for the behavior and safety of their children while onboard the Santa Special. The Valley Railroad Company, after exhausting all other possibilities for rectification, reserves the right to suspend service and/or entertainment activities within any given rail car should Company management determine that passenger behaviors pose a risk to the safety and well-being of our employees, actors, characters, or equipment, until either the behaviors are rectified, or the train returns to Essex Station.