All aboard the Santa Express

THOMASTON — The Santa Express and Northern Lights Limited at the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston began its weekend schedule on Nov. 24, welcoming families for a train ride with Santa, Mrs. Claus and their friendly band of elves.

The holiday season train rides are by far the museum’s most popular event, members said, particularly for young children who have the chance to visit with Santa while riding the train. Caroling and cocoa make the experience one to remember.

The rides run Friday through Sunday from Thanskgiving to the weekend of Dec. 21-23. All rides are about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The Santa Express is the earlier train, where parents and kids alike are able to hop on board for the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus. As the train travels through the countryside on the Naugatuck railway, passengers can visit with Santa and play with his elves. Each child will also get a special gift from Santa’s toy bag.

Santa Express trains start at 12 p.m. and at 2:15 p.m. on days when other services are running.

The Northern Lights Limited leaves in the evening, with rides at 5 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. “Experience the magic as the lights inside and out of each car are lit, illuminating the entire train in a soft, cheerful glow,” the museum’s website reads. “Upon departure, you will be taken directly to the North Pole, picking up Santa and Mrs. Claus for all to see. Once on board the train, Santa and Mrs. Claus will take turns visiting with all those on board as the train slowly chugs along through the night. While Santa is visiting each of all the good boys and girls on the train, his Elves will keep you busy dancing and singing along to the music. Each child will get an extra special gift from Santa’s toy bag.”

Advanced and coach car services are available for all train rides, and prices vary. Full information and reservations can be found at www.rmne.org. The Railroad Museum of New England is located at 242 Main St., Thomaston and can be reached at 860-283-7245.

Lara Green-Kazlauskas / For Hearst Connecticut Media The Railroad Museum of New England welcomed families to Thomaston for a train ride and a visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus and their friendly elves.