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A Nevada Christmas Train Ride On The V&T!

Published: October 29, 2025

By: Adam Burns

In Northern Nevada, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad turns winter into a season of sparkle and nostalgia. Its holiday train rides—the family-friendly Candy Cane Express and the after-dark Electric Holiday Train O’Lights—blend small-town charm with the region’s Old West heritage. For locals and visitors alike, these festive excursions deliver a dose of yuletide magic against the dramatic backdrop of the Carson River Canyon.

A Brief History

A quick bit of context sets the scene. The Virginia and Truckee began in the late 1860s as the lifeline of the Comstock Lode, hauling silver and supplies between Virginia City, Carson City, and beyond. The modern heritage operation brings that history to life with vintage equipment, restored depots, and scenic runs along the original right-of-way. During the holidays, the focus shifts from ore cars and locomotives to carols, cocoa, lights, and laughter—yet the soul of the railroad remains unmistakable. You’re not just riding a train; you’re stepping into a living piece of Nevada history.

The Candy Cane Express is the quintessential daytime holiday outing. Typically departing from the Eastgate Depot in Carson City, it settles into a leisurely journey through the Carson River Canyon, a rugged corridor of red rock cliffs and winter-dusted sage. The ride is short enough to keep young riders engaged—generally around 45 to 60 minutes—yet long enough to feel like a proper adventure. Cars are decked out with garlands and ornaments, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, even on brisk days.

Families love the little touches. Santa and his helpers make the rounds, greeting passengers and handing out treats like candy canes. Expect festive music, cozy decor, and lots of photo opportunities by the train and along the platform. Some dates may feature story time, letters to Santa, or other kid-friendly activities; offerings can vary year to year, so it’s wise to check the current schedule. For those seeking a stress-free, screen-free holiday activity with children or grandchildren, the Candy Cane Express hits the mark. It’s relaxed, charming, and timed perfectly for daylight hours—ideal for naptime schedules and early dinners.

Then night falls, and the Electric Holiday Train O’Lights steals the show. This evening ride transforms the train itself into a rolling light display—thousands of colorful LEDs outline windows, railings, and rooftops. The effect is pure spectacle as the illuminated consist glides into the canyon and back, glowing against the winter dark. Holiday music sets the soundtrack; conversations soften; cameras click. If the Candy Cane Express is cozy and classic, the Train O’Lights is bright and bold, tailor-made for a memorable night out.

The experience feels different after sunset. You notice silhouettes of cottonwoods along the river, reflections dancing on water, and the starry dome overhead on clear nights. The cold air sharpens the senses, making a thermos of cocoa or a wool blanket feel like luxuries. The ride time is similar to the daytime train, but the mood is distinct—more cinematic, more atmospheric. Couples, friend groups, and families with older kids gravitate to this one, especially those who love holiday lights displays and seasonal music. It’s festive without being frenetic.

While both holiday trains celebrate the season, each has its own sweet spot:

- Candy Cane Express: Best for younger children, grandparents, and those who prefer daylight rides and lots of face time with Santa. Think cookies, carols, and classic holiday cheer.
- Electric Holiday Train O’Lights: Best for light-lovers, photographers, and night owls. Think twinkle lights, music, and a visual experience that’s a little more wow.

Whichever you choose, planning ahead pays off. Holiday trains are popular and often sell out, especially on peak weekends in late November and December. Buy tickets early from the official Virginia and Truckee Railroad website and double-check your departure time and depot. The heritage line’s holiday rides usually leave from Eastgate Depot in Carson City, not Virginia City, and you’ll want to arrive early to park, check in, and take photos before boarding. Build in buffer time—winter traffic, excited kids, and a full parking lot are all part of the fun.

Dress for mountain-desert winter. Layers are your friend; temperatures drop quickly after sunset and canyon breezes can feel colder than the forecast suggests. Comfortable shoes, hats, and gloves make a difference, and a blanket is a pro move for the night train. If you’re traveling with little ones, bring a favorite jacket, a backup snack, and hand warmers. Strollers may need to be folded at the platform; if accessibility is a concern, reach out to the railroad in advance so staff can guide you to the best boarding options.

As for amenities, expect restrooms at the depot and festive touches like music, decorations, and seasonal goodies. On-board features can vary by car and year; when in doubt, contact the railroad directly. If you’re hoping to sit together as a large group, arrive early and board promptly. Most cars are open seating during the holidays, but that can change, and certain cars may offer different seating configurations.

A few insider-style tips elevate the experience. Daytime riders should nab a seat on the canyon side for views of the river and rock formations; ask a volunteer or staff member which side is best that day. Photographers riding the Train O’Lights can lower their shutter speed to capture light trails and use the window reflection creatively—just remember to be courteous to fellow passengers. Both trains pair well with a festive meal; downtown Carson City and nearby Virginia City offer plenty of eateries, breweries, and cafes for pre- or post-ride dining. If you can, explore the area’s seasonal events—tree lightings, artisan markets, and museum exhibits often run parallel to the train schedule.

The intangible magic of these rides comes from how they blend tradition and place. The Virginia and Truckee is more than a tourist line; it’s part of Nevada’s identity, a thread connecting prospectors, pioneers, and present-day communities. That sense of continuity is poignant during the holidays, when families make memories they’ll revisit for years. Kids who waved to Santa on the Candy Cane Express grow into teens who snap moody photos on the Train O’Lights; grandparents return with a new generation in tow; couples make it an annual date night. The ritual becomes part of the season.

If you want to choose between the two, think about your crowd and your calendar. Have toddlers or prefer afternoons? Candy Cane Express. Love lights and can handle the cold? Electric Holiday Train O’Lights. Can’t decide? Do both. The experiences are complementary rather than redundant, and spreading them across a few weeks can keep the holiday spirit humming. Just remember: schedules, offerings, and departure points can change from year to year. Always consult the official site for current details, especially around special events, accessibility, and weather-related updates.

In the end, what sets the Virginia and Truckee’s holiday trains apart is their authenticity. They’re not theme park rides; they’re real trains on a historic route, stewarded by people who love railroading and the region it helped build. Add twinkling lights, cocoa, carols, and the hush of a winter canyon, and you’ve got a tradition that feels both timeless and uniquely Nevadan. Whether you board the Candy Cane Express under a high desert sun or settle into the Electric Holiday Train O’Lights beneath a canopy of stars, you’ll step off a little lighter, a little warmer, and a lot more in the holiday spirit.