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A California Christmas Train Ride In The Napa Valley!

Published: October 24, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Few holiday outings capture the magic of the season like the Napa Valley Wine Train’s Christmas rides.

Combining vintage rail travel, vineyard views, and family-friendly festivities, the Wine Train transforms its storied cars into a rolling winter wonderland each year.

If you’re considering a holiday trip to Napa—or you’re local and looking for a memorable seasonal tradition—here’s everything you need to know about the Napa Valley Wine Train and its beloved Christmas trains.

An early scene of the Napa Valley Wine Train near Yountville, California in September, 1989. J.C. Appiarius photo.

About the Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is a celebrated heritage railway experience that runs from downtown Napa through the heart of the valley. Operating on a historic rail line originally laid in the 19th century, the train carries guests in beautifully restored early 20th-century railcars outfitted with brass, mahogany, and plush seating.

Throughout the year, it’s best known for multi-course onboard dining experiences, vintner-hosted journeys, and scenic rides past iconic wineries and vineyards.

The train departs from the McKinstry Street Station in downtown Napa (near the Oxbow Public Market) and typically travels a portion of the line toward Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena, depending on the specific excursion.

Types Of Holiday Rides

During the holiday season—generally from late November through December—the Napa Valley Wine Train runs special Christmas-themed rides.  Regarded as "Santa Train Jolly Journeys."  These trips include "Santa's Cookie Jar," "Jingle On The Rails," and the "Gourmet Holiday Express."

The first includes an excursion during which time guests can enjoy warm cider or cocoa, a fresh baked cookie, and greeting from Santa.  

The latter two excursions are more upscale and includes a three-course meal for kids, a tableside visit from Santa, and a digital or printed photo with Santa. "Jingle On The Rails" is held in the Pullman lounge car while the "Gourmet Holiday Express" is held within the Pullman dining car.

Finally, guests can upgrade their experience to the dome car!

Overall, the railroad's Christmas trains are designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages. Children are encouraged to come in cozy pajamas or festive outfits, and adults can enjoy the holiday spirit with a glass of wine or sparkling wine available for purchase. The atmosphere is playful and immersive, with costumed characters, carolers, or interactive performers keeping the energy high from boarding to the final goodbye.

When to Go

Early season (late November/early December): Less crowded, potentially better fares, and a great way to kick off the season.

Mid-December: Peak festivity and demand. Expect busier trains and book as early as possible.

Practical Logistics

Location: The Napa Valley Wine Train departs from McKinstry Street Station in downtown Napa, a short walk from the Oxbow Public Market. Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check-in, parking, and time to enjoy the station’s festive décor.

Dress code: Casual and festive. Layers are smart for cool December evenings. Kids in pajamas are common on Santa-focused rides.

Safety and comfort: Trains are climate-controlled, but door areas can be cooler when opened at stops. Keep little ones close during boarding and deboarding.

Who Will Love Their Christmas Trains

Families with young children: The Santa-centric rides are tailor-made for kids who delight in music, cookies, and characters.

Multigenerational groups: Grandparents, parents, and kids can all enjoy the experience together without a long evening commitment.

Couples and friend groups: For a more refined holiday night out, look for seasonal dinner trains or elevated experiences with curated menus and wine pairings.

How It Differs from the Regular Wine Train

The classic Wine Train experience is all about slow travel, vineyard scenery, and gourmet dining—often spanning multiple hours with multi-course meals and, in some cases, winery stops. The Christmas trains emphasize seasonal entertainment and family fun, run for a shorter duration, and focus on festive treats rather than full-service dining. Both experiences are rooted in the charm of vintage railcars and Napa’s ambiance, but they serve different occasions and audiences.

Final Thoughts

The Napa Valley Wine Train’s Christmas rides wrap the valley’s timeless scenery in holiday sparkle, offering a joyful, stress-free way to celebrate the season.

Whether you’re starting a new family tradition, organizing a festive group outing, or simply seeking a spirited evening that blends nostalgia with Napa hospitality, the Christmas train delivers warmth, whimsy, and just the right dash of wonder.

Because program details can change year to year, always confirm current schedules, pricing, and offerings directly with the Napa Valley Wine Train before you go—but once you’re onboard, sit back, sip, sing, and savor the ride.