Amtrak Expands Northeast Holiday Train Service for Record Thanksgiving Travel

Holiday-themed train rides are a popular festive tradition across various regions of North America in 2025, offering unique seasonal experiences. Southern California's Metrolink is hosting its Holiday Express with decorated trains, Santa Claus appearances, and themed activities at multiple stations, requiring special tickets priced at $30 per person. Similarly, Irvine Park Railroad in Orange, California, is celebrating with its Christmas Train and Santa's Village, featuring family-friendly activities and requiring reservations for the train rides. On the East Coast, Amtrak is preparing for a record Thanksgiving travel surge by adding more trains and cars along the Northeast Corridor, enhancing service frequency to accommodate increased passenger demand. Colorado offers several historic and scenic Christmas train rides, such as the Santa's Lighted Forest and The Polar Express, providing immersive holiday experiences in picturesque mountain settings. Additionally, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train continues its mission of spreading cheer and fighting hunger across Upstate New York and other northeastern regions with festive performances and food drives during its annual tour.