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Illustration: A lit steam train with a wreath crossing a snowy valley beside a Christmas tree
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Christmas

Santa Express — Northern Central Railway

  • Run by Northern Central Railway of York
  • Historic New Freedom Train Station — New Freedom, Pennsylvania, United States

Next: Dec 5–23, 2026

A Santa train from New Freedom to Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, with a visit from Santa for every child and hot chocolate and cookies afterward.

Updated

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Next edition

Dec 5–23, 2026

Dec 5-6, 11-13, 18-20 and 22-23, 2026. Departure times vary by date; see the booking calendar.

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About this event

Northern Central Railway of York runs its Santa Express from the Historic New Freedom Train Station in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, to Glen Rock. The operator says every child gets a visit with Santa, who has a special gift for children on the nice list.

After the ride, guests can visit the Northern Central Railway Engine House for complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, the model train room and a strolling fiddler. The operator says the ride is for riders of any age.

What to expect

The train runs from New Freedom to Glen Rock. Santa visits each child on board. Afterwards the Engine House offers hot chocolate and cookies, a model train room and a strolling fiddler.

Practical info

Boards at the Historic New Freedom Train Station, 117 N. Front Street, New Freedom, PA 17349. Tickets are sold through the railway's FareHarbor booking page. Phone (717) 942-2370.

Where it happens

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Spots and live cams nearby

Where to watch trains within 100 km of New Freedom.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Santa Express leave from?▾
It boards at the Historic New Freedom Train Station and rides to Glen Rock.
What happens after the ride?▾
Guests can visit the Northern Central Railway Engine House for complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, the model train room and a strolling fiddler.
Who is the ride for?▾
The operator says it is for riders of any age, with a visit from Santa for each child.

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Sources

Dates checked on Oct 28, 2026 from the official site: northerncentralrailway.com. Schedules can change — always confirm with the operator before you travel.

Official website: northerncentralrailway.com

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