PALESTINE, Ill. (WTWO/WAWV) – An annual Christmas tradition rode its way into Palestine, Illinois on Sunday.
Indiana Rail Road’s Santa Train is a local holiday event that has brought smiles to families for over 3 decades. The Santa Train is a 3-day event that makes stops in both Indiana and Illinois.
It will stop and spread Christmas cheer in over 10 cities over that time. This event allows families to come and let the kids meet Santa and his friends while also getting to see the inside of a train.
Melissa Chapman is the manager of administration for Indiana Rail Roads, and she explains the impact this can have on these communities.
“We are a big part of these communities as our rail goes through them and we just want to give back to the communities. Everything here is free of charge and is a chance for people to actually get on the train which is a really neat experience and to also get the hats. gloves, and coats if they need them,” said Chapman.
The volunteers and costumed characters are vastly made up of railroaders and their families. This gives these employees the chance to bond over the giving of happiness and Christmas cheer to these families.
Chapman wants to express how wonderful it is seeing families pass this tradition down multiple generations.
“It is very special because we have some people that came as children and now, they are bringing their own kids to carry on the tradition. It is wonderful,” added Chapman.
This train took its final stop in Sullivan Sunday to wrap up their weekend of spreading tons of Christmas Cheer.
