Santa's Annual Train Visit Delivers Hope and Magic to One Corner of Coal Country
Since 1943, the people of Appalachian Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee have eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival. This beloved tradition brings joy not from the sky, but rolling along the tracks of the region's historic coal country. This year marks the 82nd running of the Santa Train, which travels along 110 miles of the CSX rail line, winding through remote river valleys.
Every year, families gather along the tracks, some of whom are now part of the third, fourth, or even fifth generation to experience the event. Sandra Owens from Haysi, Virginia, expresses her anticipation, holding up her pillowcase with gratitude, which read “Thank you CSX and volunteers for the Santa Train. 82.” The excitement for the train started for her decades ago when her son was just three years old. Now at 46, she brings her grandchildren and is eager for the day she’ll bring great-grandchildren to witness the magic.
“The faces of the kids, that's what makes me happy,” she said, smiling fondly as she recalled the joy the event brings to children. "You can’t see anything prettier than those smiles."
The train begins its festive ride from Shelbiana, Kentucky, where families anxiously await its arrival before dawn. At each stop along the route, enthusiastic crowds gather, some numbering in the hundreds, blissfully waiting to see Santa. Volunteers dressed as elves throw stuffed animals from the train to eager children, ensuring each little one goes home with something special. Over the years, more than 15 tons of gifts are distributed, which include hats, mittens, fuzzy blankets, board games, skateboards, and of course, cuddly teddy bears.
Donna Dougherty, who hails from Snowflake, Virginia, reminisces about her childhood visits to the Santa Train. For her, the event symbolized so much more than mere presents. “Back then, this was all we got, and we were proud of it,” she shared. Today, she carries on the tradition with her own family. “It’s really nice they do this. It shows the true Christmas spirit.”
For many CSX employees, taking part as volunteers on the Santa Train is considered both a privilege and an honor. Jesse Hensley, who has long wanted to volunteer, recalls being enthralled at the sound of the train whistle since meeting his wife, Angie. She shared her dreams growing up—riding the Santa Train herself. Now, both Jesse and Angie find joy working together on the train.
Traditionally, the Santa Train doesn’t visit Erwin, Tennessee, this year proved different. After Hurricane Helene caused devastating flooding, CSX organized a special event for the community. Residents, young and old, were invited to gather at the Erwin rail yard for food, festivities, and gifts. The event was made even more special with Santa making his usual appearance, riding on train cars beautifully adorned with festive lights and decorations.
Angie couldn’t suppress her excitement during the Santa Train's main event, joyfully handing out toys and enjoying smiling faces of children she recognized from the past. CSX President and CEO Joe Hinrichs also participated, stepping off the train at every stop to speak with attendees and distribute gifts. His most cherished memory came two years prior, when his team presented a special teddy bear to a child who had been holding back from joining the crowd. “There wasn't a dry eye anywhere,” he fondly recalled. “It was such a magical moment.”
Year after year, the Santa Train continues to weave itself deeply within the fabric of these mountain communities, serving as an enduring symbol of hope and joy. With each whistle blown and every gift handed out, the spirit of Christmas thrives not only through material gifts, but also through the cherished traditions and memories created along the way, proving once again—magic is alive and well during the holiday season.
