The Napa Valley Wine Train has confirmed the return of its annual Santa Train, a seasonal fixture that transforms vintage Pullman carriages into a rolling winter wonderland. Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 edition, running from 27 November through 23 December, with additional daytime departures on 21, 22, and 23 December.
Four Distinct Festive Journeys
This year, the operator is offering four themed experiences: Santa's Cookie Car, Gourmet Holiday Express, Jingle on the Rails, and the Very Merry Vista Dome. Each includes a gourmet meal and curated holiday activities, from cookie decorating to caroling. The Very Merry Vista Dome, housed in the train’s iconic glass-domed carriage, provides panoramic views of Napa Valley’s vineyards dressed in winter hues.
“Our artfully restored Pullman carriages, adorned with holiday décor, create a whimsical winter wonderland,” said Nathan Davis, general manager of the Napa Valley Wine Train. “We’ve designed each experience to offer something unique for families, couples, and groups looking to celebrate the season in Wine Country.”
The train departs from downtown Napa and follows a 36-mile roundtrip route through the valley. Guests are greeted with a welcome cup of hot cider or cocoa before boarding, and can visit the Merry Mailing Centre to send postcards to Father Christmas. A pop-up shop sells festive pyjamas and gifts, adding to the pre-boarding atmosphere.
Community Partnership with Expressions of Hope
Beyond the holiday spectacle, the Wine Train is deepening its local ties by partnering with Expressions of Hope, a Napa-based organisation supporting foster youth. Guests are encouraged to bring new toys and clothing for donation, and a portion of ticket proceeds will go to NapaFirewise, a wildfire preparedness nonprofit. On 24 November, the train will host a dedicated community night for the Boys and Girls Club Napa.
This blend of tourism and community engagement mirrors trends seen elsewhere in the industry, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises adding 56 festive shore excursions for its 2026 winter Mediterranean season, where cruise lines increasingly tie onboard celebrations to local charitable initiatives.
The Santa Train is a key driver of winter tourism for Napa Valley, traditionally a quieter period for the region’s wine tourism sector. By offering multiple price points—from the family-friendly Cookie Car to the upscale Vista Dome—the Wine Train aims to attract both local residents and international visitors. The service also provides a template for experiential rail travel, a segment that has seen renewed interest as operators like Trainline partner with Yoto for screen-free family audio content to enhance the onboard experience.
For travel professionals, the Santa Train represents a case study in seasonal product differentiation. The Wine Train’s ability to layer themed experiences onto its core dining-and-scenery product—while integrating community partnerships—offers lessons for hoteliers, tour operators, and destination marketers seeking to extend shoulder-season demand. As Nathan Davis noted, “These rides are about creating unforgettable memories for families and friends in the heart of Wine Country.”
Tickets are available via the Napa Valley Wine Train website, with early booking recommended as several dates are expected to sell out. The operator advises agents and tour operators to check group booking options for the community night and private charters.
