Essex Steam Train expands service

ESSEX — The Essex Steam Train & River Boat will operate three steam trains for the holiday season. With this expansion of service, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is achieving a milestone as the only station in the country to have three steam trains operating simultaneously.

The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat is introducing the Santa Special: Elf Academy, a one-of-akind holiday experience for kids to not only meet Kris Kringle, but also to learn how to become one of Santa’s timeless helpers from onboard seasoned Elf Professors. In addition, each child will receive a small holiday gift from Santa’s Elves.

Tickets for the Santa Special are now on sale, and will run every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 23. For more information, visit http://essexsteamtrain.com/seasonal-excursions/santa-special/.

Owned and operated by the Valley Railroad Company, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is a unique historic attraction in the Connecticut River Valley. The railroad has transported people in Connecticut since 1868, and the Valley Railroad Company has operated today’s well-known train and riverboat for over 40 years. The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat takes people on exciting excursions through the unspoiled Connecticut River Valley, a place designated as “one of the last great places on earth” by the Nature Conservancy. The steam locomotive pulls vintage coaches through the quintessential New England towns of Deep River and Chester, and the Becky Thatcher riverboat takes visitors past the undeveloped Selden Neck State Park on its way to East Haddam. The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat offers various eco-excursions and family-themed events throughout the year. For more information, visit http://essexsteamtrain.com/.