West Virginia Christmas Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Last revised: January 3, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The officially licensed "Polar Express" train rides are usually the best known holiday excursions, and typically sell out quite fast. However, many heritage railroads and museums have foregone the great expense of hosting that event to offer their own Christmas-themed train ride.
In West Virginia, the Potomac Eagle Scenic in Romney offers their own "North Pole Express." This excursion has grown in popularity over the years and witnesses a great many visitors every year! In addition, the Cass Scenic Railroad now hosts holiday-themed rides as well. More information about the event may be found further below.
Amtrak's westbound "Cardinal" service passes through a Christmas-themed park in Alderson, West Virginia. Loyd Lowry photo.Other Holiday Events
West Virginia is a beautiful state that offers a wide range of exciting Christmas events for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, holiday-themed attractions, or festive markets, you'll find something to suit your taste in the Mountain State. In this article, we'll highlight some of the most popular Christmas events available in West Virginia.
Festival of Lights at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center
(Wheeling): One of the most popular Christmas events in West Virginia is the Festival of Lights at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center. This spectacular light display features over 300 acres of twinkling lights, including a 300-foot-long tunnel of lights and a 40-foot Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including a wagon ride through the lights, a live nativity scene, and holiday-themed shops.
Christmas in Shepherdstown
(Shepherdstown): The charming town of Shepherdstown comes alive during the holiday season, with a variety of events and activities for visitors of all ages. The town's annual Christmas parade features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself, while the "Christmas in Shepherdstown" festival offers craft vendors, live music, and a tree lighting ceremony. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, carriage rides, and tours of the historic town.
Holiday of Lights at the State Capitol Complex
(Charleston): The West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy a free trolley ride through the display, as well as a variety of other activities, including visits with Santa, live music, and craft vendors.
Christmas Craft Show in Parkersburg
(Parkersburg): The annual Christmas Craft Show in Parkersburg is one of the largest holiday shopping events in West Virginia, featuring over 200 vendors selling handmade crafts and gifts. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for children, including a visit from Santa Claus.
Parkersburg's Holiday in the Park
(Parkersburg): Parkersburg's Holiday in the Park is a must-see attraction during the Christmas season. This festive event features a stunning light display, with over 500,000 lights illuminating the park's walking trails. Visitors can also enjoy holiday-themed train rides, pictures with Santa, and more.
Holiday Of Lights, Bluefield
(Bluefield): The Christmas Fantasy Light Show in Bluefield features over one million lights illuminating the park's walkways, bridges, and trees. Visitors can drive through the display or take a walk along the path to experience the magic of the holiday season. The show also includes an animated light tunnel and a live nativity scene.
Village Of Lights
(Barboursville): The Village of Lights display in Barboursville is a unique way to experience the magic of the holiday season. The show features over 10,000 lights synchronized to holiday music. Visitors can enjoy the display from their car or take a walk around the property to experience the magic of the season.
In conclusion, West Virginia offers a wide range of exciting Christmas events for visitors of all ages, from spectacular light displays to charming holiday festivals. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural events, you'll find something to enjoy in the Mountain State during the holiday season.
Overview
Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
(Romney): The Potomac Eagle Scenic is one of West Virginia's best kept secrets and has continued to add increasingly more excursions, and improved accommodations/cars since began running in 1991. The railroad operates over the former Baltimore & Ohio's "Petersburg Branch," which runs 53 miles from Green Spring to Petersburg.
The line winds its way along the South Branch of the Potomac River as it passes through small communities such as Romney and Moorefield before terminating in Petersburg.
Among their many special events and train rides offered throughout the year is the "North Pole Express" which runs during the holiday season. The Potomac Eagle Scenic is somewhat unique in providing passengers the option of enjoying this experience via two different classes of service; either first class or standard coach.
The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley/West Virginia Central's popular "Polar Express" event is seen here at the historic Western Maryland Railway depot in Elkins, West Virginia. Loyd Lowry photo.The "North Pole Express" is a 1-hour, 15-minute train ride from the Romney station. The station, itself, provides guests the chance to partake in several activities which includes an event barn, letters to Santa Claus, coloring stations, photo opportunities, a nativity with live farm animals, and even hot cocoa and snacks.
During the train ride guests will enjoy a Christmas story, enjoy mile and cookies, and even visit Santa himself. All the children will also receive a small gift during the trip.
Cass Scenic Railroad
The Cass Scenic Railroad is one of West Virginia's most popular tourist attractions operating several historic geared steam locomotives, most notably Shays.
The railroad was originally part of West Virginia Pulp & Paper's (later Mower Lumber Company) massive timber operations centered within the small community of Cass, West Virginia, situated deep within the Appalachian Mountains.
In 2023, the historic railroad will host "Christmas At Cass." As the railroad states this event:
"The steam powered journey will depart the Cass depot and travel along the scenic Greenbrier River. This excursion will last approximately 75 to 90 minutes and feature decorated & heated coaches. Limited seating will also be available inside our historic Chesapeake & Ohio caboose at the rear of the train!
Each child will receive a special surprise gift during the ride, which is included in the ticket price.
The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and Friends of Cass will be offering a variety of activities and events during the weekends as well. A full schedule of events will be announced at a later date."
Recent Articles
-
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…
