The VRE Santa Train — one of our area’s most popular seasonal opportunities — returns December 12, 2026, for family fun on the tracks! These highly anticipated rides always sell out — so mark your calendars for November 30, 2026, when tickets go on sale.

This year, tickets will be sold online only through Eventbrite until they sell out. Regardless of age, all passengers (including infants) are required to have a ticket. Tickets are non-refundable and not available at the station on the day of the event.

Enjoy a unique round-trip train ride with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the cheeriest elves from the North Pole, departing from VRE stations, including Burke Centre, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Spotsylvania, and Woodbridge.

Beyond the excitement of kids boarding and riding a real train on a round-trip adventure, Santa and his friends will greet children and their families. They’re eager to hear excited kids’ wishes and share their stash of candy canes, coloring books, and other treats. Plus, the ride carries an important message: Santa is on board to promote rail safety and Operation Lifesaver’s “Look, Listen and Live” campaign.

Spread a little holiday cheer, too! Participating stations will also serve as drop-off sites for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign — bring an unwrapped toy to share the joy with a Virginia child in need.