The 82nd annual run of the Santa Train through Appalachian mountain towns kicked off this year with a special stop to bring holiday cheer to a community ravaged by Hurricane Helene in the Eastern United States.
Santa Claus kicked off the celebration in Erwin, Tennessee, giving out gift bags, chicken dinners, and a close-up view of the heritage 1902 Clinchfield steam locomotive chosen this year to pull train cars full of presents, and decorated with festive lights, along the 110-mile whistlestop tour in late November.
One of the nation’s oldest and most cherished holiday traditions, the CSX Santa Train distributed more than 15 tons of gifts to families along the route, making this year’s event another huge success.
Spreading holiday cheer across Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, and Tennessee, thousands of families lined the route as the train brought an abundance of toys, backpacks, winter clothes, and holiday joy to Appalachian communities that have gathered to share in the holiday spirit.
It’s a Christmas tradition that started in 1943.
“Our team is honored to be part of a tradition that brings joy and supports families in a meaningful way during the holiday season,” said Joe Hinrichs, the president of CSX. “We look forward to many more years of delivering the magic of the CSX Santa Train.”
“Every year, we are inspired by the smiles and heartfelt stories shared along the route that remind us why this tradition is so special,” said Bryan Tucker, a vice president at CSX.
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He praised longstanding partnerships with Appalachian Power, Food City, Soles4Souls, and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce that ensure the Santa Train can bring joy to as many families as possible.
WATCH a lovely video about the Santa Train’s 82nd running…