That portly gent from the North Pole will once again pay a visit to the Danbury Railway Museum and you can take a ride in a vintage train through the historic railyard to visit him.
The event will take place on Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 7-8, 14-15, and 21. Trains will depart every half-hour from noon to 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays; 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $10 for ages 2 and up (under 2, free). Each child will receive a small gift from Santa. Based on the popularity of this event the past couple of years, reservations are suggested.
The short train ride in a fully-restored 1953 New Haven Railroad Rail Diesel Car (RDC) will take you through the railyard, past the only powered turntable in Connecticut — recently listed on the National Historic Register — and over 70 vintage railroad cars, locomotives and many unique pieces of railroad history. The train ride will terminate at Santa’s own private railcar where you’ll be greeted by Mrs. Claus and Santa’s helpers in toyland.
Of course, the exhibits and multiple operating model train layouts inside the restored 1903 Danbury station will also be open, as will the well-stocked gift shop. Also inside the station, you’ll find free hot chocolate, temporary tattoos and other activities for the little ones.
The Danbury Railway Museum is a nonprofit, staffed solely by volunteers. It’s dedicated to the preservation of, and education about, railroad history. The museum is located in the restored 1903 Danbury Station and rail yard at 120 White St. in Danbury. For further information, visit http://www.danburyrail.org, e-mail to info@danburyrail.org, or call the museum at 203-778-8337.