
Christmas
Samichlaus-Dampffahrt nach Huttwil — Oensingen-Balsthal-Bahn
- Run by Oensingen-Balsthal-Bahn AG (OeBB Historic)
- Balsthal station — Balsthal, Solothurn, Switzerland
Next: Nov 29, 2026
A steam train from Balsthal via Oensingen and Solothurn to the Christmas market in Huttwil, with the Samichlaus boarding on the return trip.
Updated
Next edition
Nov 29, 2026
Single day. Departs Balsthal 10:20 (boarding from 9:45), Oensingen 10:45, Solothurn 11:25; returns from Huttwil at 15:40.
From CHF 32 (as published by the operator)
About this event
The Oensingen-Balsthal-Bahn runs a steam excursion to the Wiehnachtsmärit in Huttwil. The train is hauled by the steam locomotive Eb 2/4 JS with historic saloon cars, and the operator says the journey is part of the adventure for families and steam fans alike.
The train leaves Balsthal in the morning, calls at Oensingen and Solothurn and reaches Huttwil around midday. Passengers then visit the Christmas market on their own; the operator says entry to the market is free. On the return trip the Samichlaus boards the train and gives each child a gift.
Punch and Lebkuchen are included on the outward trip. The OeBB-Historic association serves drinks and small snacks on board, payable on the train. Parking at Balsthal station is free.
What to expect
A steam-hauled ride to the Christmas market in Huttwil with free time at the market, punch and Lebkuchen on the way out, and a visit from the Samichlaus on the return trip, who gives each child a gift. Drinks and snacks are on sale on board.
Practical info
Boards at Balsthal (boarding possible from 9:45), Oensingen or Solothurn; fares depend on the boarding station. Included in the ticket: return trip behind steam locomotive Eb 2/4 JS with vintage saloon cars, a seat guaranteed (reserved seats for bookings of 4 or more), punch and Lebkuchen on the way out, a gift from the Samichlaus for children and free parking at Balsthal station. Children under 4 travel free but need a (free) ticket for a seat and a gift. No reductions for Halbtax, GA, FVP, Junior or companion cards. Tickets: Eventfrog or the OeBB travel centre counter (no refund for counter bookings). Phone: 062 391 31 53.
Where it happens
Spots and live cams nearby
Where to watch trains within 100 km of Balsthal.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the steam train leave from?▾
Which locomotive pulls the train?▾
How long do we have at the Christmas market?▾
What happens on the way back?▾
What is included in the ticket?▾
Do children under 4 need a ticket?▾
Are Halbtax or GA cards valid?▾
Gift ideas for the family
Train-themed gifts, picked against our published criteria. No brand pays to be listed here.
Bachmann Thoroughbred HO Scale Ready-to-Run Electric Train Set
Bachmann · Budget
A ready-to-run HO freight starter set with an F7 diesel, three cars, a snap-together track oval and a power pack, everything needed to run a train on a tabletop.
Bachmann Rail Chief HO Scale Ready-to-Run Electric Train Set
Bachmann · Mid-range
A ready-to-run HO scale freight set built around an EMD GP40 diesel, with a snap-fit E-Z Track oval, a signal bridge and a small crowd of trackside figures.
Bachmann Night Before Christmas Large Scale Electric Train Set (90037)
Bachmann Trains · Premium
A ready-to-run Large Scale (G) steam train set with a 4-6-0 locomotive, tender, gondola, bobber caboose and a Santa figure, sold with a 14-piece oval of track and a power pack.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How we pick our gear
Sources
Dates checked on Oct 18, 2026 from the official site: oebb.ch. Schedules can change — always confirm with the operator before you travel.
Official website: oebb.ch
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