KINGSPORT, TN (RAILFAN JOURNAL) – Marking its 81st year, the CSX Santa Train delighted communities throughout Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee on Saturday, November 18, with a festive display that brought joy to both young and old.
WATCH the 2023 Santa Train by clicking HERE.
A cherished tradition along the historic Clinchfield route since 1943, the Santa Train continues to command a substantial turnout, drawing residents and well-wishers from far and wide.
Making strategic stops in rural Appalachian communities, the Santa Train featured Santa Claus positioned at the rear, distributing gifts to each child at every scheduled stop.
Organized by CSX in collaboration with key sponsors such as Appalachian Power, Food City, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, and Soles 4 Souls, the train commenced its journey promptly at 6 AM from Shelby, near Pikeville, Kentucky, and successfully concluded its 110-mile route in Kingsport, Tennessee at 3 PM.
The 14 scheduled stops included towns in Kentucky, namely Shelby, Marrowbone, and Elkhart City; in Virginia, stops were made in Toms Bottom, Haysi, Clinchco, Fremont, Dante, St. Paul, Dungannon, Ft. Blackmore, Kermit, and Waycross. The final stop took place in Kingsport, Tennessee.
As the Santa Train embarked on its journey to Shelby, KY, CSX 2, an F40PH, encountered a traction motor issue. Consequently, two CSX GE engines were promptly dispatched to provide assistance for the 110-mile journey from Shelby to Kingsport. Despite this technical challenge, the Santa Train adhered to its schedule, experiencing minimal delays throughout the day.
CSX CEO Joe Hinrichs officially announced that the Santa Train will continue to spread joy in 2024, with the next edition scheduled for Saturday, November 16.