Ride the rails this summer on a festive Christmas in July Train through Arkansas's Ozarks. Celebrate with holiday music, treats, and a surprise visit from Santa!
Ride the rails this summer on a festive Christmas in July Train through Arkansas's Ozarks. Celebrate with holiday music, treats, and a surprise visit from Santa!
Book with Arkansas & Missouri Railroad
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Arkansas & Missouri Railroad · Springdale, Arkansas
Celebrate the holiday spirit in the middle of summer aboard the Christmas in July Train with Arkansas & Missouri Railroad in Springdale, Arkansas. This unique experience invites travelers to enjoy festive decorations, cheerful holiday music, and themed activities that bring the magic of Christmas to the scenic Ozarks. As you ride through lush landscapes, indulge in seasonal treats and refreshing drinks specially crafted for the occasion. The highlight for many guests is a surprise visit from Santa Claus himself, making this trip a memorable adventure for families, couples, and friends alike. The relaxing pace of the train allows visitors to take in the natural beauty of the region while enjoying a joyful atmosphere that blends wintry traditions with summer warmth. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or a unique way to celebrate the holidays early, this private train ride delivers a festive escape with plenty of charm and excitement.
Yes, the event is family-friendly and offers activities and a visit from Santa that kids will love.
Holiday treats and refreshing drinks are available for purchase onboard; some complimentary snacks may be included.
The full experience typically lasts between two and three hours from departure to return.
Yes, the train offers accommodations to help guests with mobility challenges enjoy the ride comfortably.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed; however, the train provides a selection of holiday-themed refreshments.
Since the event is in summer, expect warm temperatures with the possibility of humidity; air conditioning keeps the interior comfortable.
Arkansas & Missouri Railroad operates seasonal and themed excursion trains out of Springdale, Arkansas. The railroad offers a variety of public events and scenic trips that highlight the Ozark Mountains and local rail heritage. Popular offerings include Holiday Express runs from Springdale, Monett, and Van Buren featuring vintage railcars decorated for the season, hot cocoa, classic Christmas stories, and visits from Santa. Seasonal specials include Mardi Gras and Halloween-themed rides, Christmas in July, and family-focused events like Ice Cream Socials that support the J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum and the restoration of Frisco Caboose #1288. Dining and celebration experiences include Father’s Day BBQ & Banjo and Mother’s Day High Tea, both held aboard vintage cars with live music and curated food service. The Springdale to Winslow trip is a three-hour scenic route through the Boston Mountain range, traversing valley trestles and the 1,700-foot Winslow tunnel to showcase the natural landscape of the Ozarks. Ticketed excursions combine historic rail equipment, seasonal décor, and themed programming suitable for families, holiday groups, and rail enthusiasts. Events are presented as curated train experiences with depot activities, onboard entertainment, and community-focused fundraising elements. Schedules, ticketing details, and accessibility information are published by the railroad for each event. For visitors seeking scenic rail travel, seasonal celebrations, or museum-supporting outings, Arkansas & Missouri Railroad provides a range of documented, themed train experiences from its Springdale location. Advance reservations are recommended for holiday and themed trains; limited seating and scheduled departure times affect availability; book early online today.
Book with Arkansas & Missouri Railroad