Christmas in July: A Jolly Journey with Santa

July 11, 2022
Arts & Culture Tasting & Learning

All aboard for a merry adventure! It may be July, but we've already got Christmas on our minds. And
to celebrate, we are bringing back a favorite local experience this holiday season — Santa Train Jolly
Journeys! You and your family must be on the nice list this year because there will be three all-new
journeys to embark on.

A festive night for the whole family, the Santa Train features cheerful carolers, hot cider, a photo
opportunity with Santa, and even a mailing station for postcards to the North Pole. This immersive
two-hour train ride will take you through beautiful wine country for a unique and unforgettable
evening that you will surely reminisce upon each and every Christmas. Keep reading for more info
on our Santa Train packages and some tips to keep in mind when riding the train.

Riding the Rails With Santa

Ever wonder what it's like to visit Santa at the North Pole? Now's your chance! With the Santa Train,
you'll enjoy an enchanting journey, beginning when you board a festive historic train bound for
Santa's place.

This year, guests can choose from a variety of new experiences and price points. The Santa Cookie
Car is the perfect way to jingle and mingle with the big guy. It includes hot cocoa, a cookie, and a
photo with Santa while enjoying stunning views of Napa Valley. A treat for everyone, whether you're
continuing a family tradition or experiencing this voyage for the first time.

Choose the Gourmet Holiday Express experience, and you'll be invited to dine in style in our elegant
Pullman Dining Car. Guests will enjoy a laid-back evening with a three-course kid-friendly meal and
table side visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Last (but certainly not least!), you can elevate your journey with the Very Merry Vista Dome Car
experience. Here, you and your family will indulge in an evening filled with delicious cuisine while
enjoying scenic 360 views of wine country. Passengers also receive a take home box of fresh-baked
holiday cookies, cocoa, and a table visit and photo with Santa. After a fun-filled two-hour round trip,
you'll be full of festive spirit and the magic of the holidays. Be sure to arrive at the train station early
for a welcome cup of hot cider, caroling, and photo ops with Santa in his workshop!

Joy For a Good Cause

Here at Napa Valley Wine Train, we’re proud supporters of Expressions of Hope Napa. This
organization works tirelessly to help and support local children in the foster care system. As a way to
say thank you to them, and to help ensure Santa puts a smile on every little one’s face this holiday
season, a portion of the proceeds from every Jolly Journey will be donated to Expressions of Hope.
You can also get involved by dropping a toy off at the station when you arrive for your journey.
Staying on the Nice List Onboard the Santa Train

Christmas is only a few months away, and remember, Santa is always watching! So here is a list of
rules to keep in mind while riding the Santa Train if you want to keep yourself at the top of the nice
list:

• No outside alcoholic beverages are allowed on the train.
• Children are not allowed to run through the trains and must always be accompanied by an
  adult.
• We do not commit to everyone having an opportunity to visit Santa in the workshop before
  boarding. Because this is a first-come, first-served event, we encourage you to arrive early.
• No pulling Santa's beard as it hurts!
• No asking elves if their ears are real, they get sensitive about appearances.
• Parents should consider bringing a backup set of clothing in case of any spills to ensure the
  photo hopes are not dashed.
• Remember that Santa is happily married to Mrs. Claus, so conduct yourselves appropriately
  around him.
• Remember, you are never too old to believe in Santa and the magic of Christmas.
• Prepare your children in advance for what they will ask Santa for, and you are welcome to
  bring a list!
• Consider bringing your child's stuffy to help soothe them through the experience or one for
  each adult if they need the help.
• Consider not loading kids up on sweets and sugar right before seeing Santa.

Dashing Through Wine Country, On a One-of-a-Kind Train

Feeling the magic already? Let the excitement of the holiday season start early this year, or give the
gift of one of our jolly journeys to someone special. The Santa Train will run from December 1st to December 23rd, and tickets are on sale now. This is a holiday tradition that you'll want to share with family each and every holiday season. Click here for more information or to book your tickets.