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Louisiana Christmas Train Rides

Published: June 27, 2025

By: Adam Burns

When the holiday season arrives, Louisiana transforms into a land of festive celebrations and unique attractions, imbued with Southern charm and holiday spirit. Among the most enchanting of these seasonal delights are the Christmas train rides, where the magic of the holidays comes alive on the rails.

Traversing through picturesque landscapes and historical towns, these rides offer visitors an unforgettable blend of nostalgia and festivity. Here, we explore some of the most popular Christmas train rides across Louisiana, each offering its own slice of yuletide wonder.

Louisiana Steam Train Association

Situated in the charming town of Covington, the Louisiana Steam Train Association offers another entrancing experience with its "Train Rides With Santa" celebration each holiday season.

As the train travels along the tracks, passengers can enjoy festive decorations, holiday music, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Louisiana landscape.

Santa himself makes an appearance, delighting children with storytelling, holiday gifts, and photo opportunities. The Holiday Express provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and savor the simple joys of the holiday season, all while enjoying the warmth of a close-knit community celebration.

### Alexandria’s Red River Winter Wonderland

Though not exclusively a train ride, Alexandria's Red River Winter Wonderland provides an alternative holiday experience that features a train component as part of its festive offerings. The event, set against the backdrop of the shimmering Red River, includes a miniature holiday train - the "Polar Express" - that weaves through beautifully decorated scenes.

Visitors can marvel at twinkling holiday lights, festive displays, and enjoy a range of activities including ice skating and visits with Santa. The miniature train offers charming rides for young children, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates the whole family. This event is perfect for those who wish to experience the holiday magic in a varied and interactive setting.

Tips for a Magical Christmas Train Experience

Book in Advance: Christmas train rides are immensely popular, often requiring early reservations to secure a spot. Checking availability and booking tickets ahead of time can help ensure that you and your family don’t miss out.

Dress for the Occasion: Many of these experiences encourage passengers to dress in holiday pajamas or festive attire. Participating can enhance the experience and make it feel more immersive, especially for kids.

Prepare for Weather: Although Louisiana’s winters are mild, it’s still wise to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for chilly evenings aboard the train.

Conclusion

Christmas train rides in Louisiana offer enchanting experiences that capture the heart and soul of the holiday season. Whether it's the nostalgia of a classic steam train journey or the magical retelling of a beloved holiday story, these rides create a festive atmosphere that brings families and communities together. As the train whistle sounds and the tracks lead you on an unforgettable holiday journey, Louisiana stands ready to welcome you with open arms and a warm heart this Christmas season.