All aboard Ontario’s holiday and Santa train rides 2026
CPKC Holiday Express Train | South Eastern Ontario
Secure your tickets for a magical rail journey on board a Santa or Christmas train to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Enjoy family entertainment, holiday treats and Yuletide cheer.
Before you travel, check for tour updates or schedule changes as some train tours depend on the weather.
Across North America
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train
The popular CPKC Holiday Train rolls into train stations across North American communities, spreading holiday cheer. Musical guests perform on the festive train’s stage at each stop of the journey in celebration of the holiday season.
Through the Holiday Train, CPKC supports food banks across North America by raising money, food and awareness about food insecurity.
When: check back for 2026 dates
Where: Various Ontario stations
Greater Toronto Area
Harbourfront Express
The Harbourfront Express is back by popular demand at Harbourfront Centre’s Winterfest. Choose from one of two classic trains for a ride through a frosted fairyland around West Campus.
For added fun and savings, purchase a combo ticket for the Harbourfront Express and the Winter Maze, where you can wander through a maze of sparkling lights.
When: check back for 2026 dates
York, Durham and Headwaters
Niemi's Christmas Market
The Scandinavian Christmas market at Niemi Family Farm is a winter wonderland light festival complete with outdoor vendors, decorations, delicious festive treats and a Christmas train tour.
Climb aboard the Polar Express and see farm animals on a train journey around the property and Santa in his workshop in Christmas Land.
Entrance to the market area is free. However, you must purchase tickets to ride the Polar Express.
When: check back for 2026 dates
Algonquin Park, Muskoka and Parry Sound
Portage Flyer Christmas Train Ride to Santa
Enjoy a seasonally themed train ride along the Muskoka River from Muskoka Heritage Place to Purser’s Cabin. The occasion also includes carol sing-alongs, cookies, hot chocolate and scenic views of Muskoka from the train. Santa will also make a special appearance.
Purchase your tickets before boarding the train at Muskoka Heritage Place Rotary Village Station (advance purchase is not available).
Date: December 19, 2026
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Waterloo Central Railway
Take an entertaining daytime or evening journey to the North Pole aboard a vintage train. Ride the Daylight Christmas Express or experience the Nighttime Christmas Special evening tour. Train rides feature entertainment, storytelling, music and appearances by popular toys and famous Christmas characters. Wear your holiday best to an event that will bring out lots of seasonal cheer.
Santa’s Nightcap offers a unique train experience for riders aged 19 and over. The ride includes delicious snacks, holiday swag and a complimentary alcoholic beverage.
Board the train at the Farmers Market Station near St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Parking is available in the Value Village parking lot.
When: select days in November and December 2026
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Christmas on the Rails
Ride a festive vintage streetcar from Halton County Railway one last time until spring. This event includes Christmas carols and treats.
Purchase tickets at the venue.
When: December 5, 6, 12 and 13, 2026
Where: 13629 Guelph Line, Milton
Southeastern Ontario
North Pole Express
Get your tickets to enjoy a ride aboard a vintage caboose decorated for the magical season at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario.
Bring your holiday wish list to share with Santa, who will be waiting to take photos in the 1899 dining car. The fun continues at the museum with hot chocolate by the fire, holiday music, face painting, games and shopping.
When: November 28, December 5, December 12, 2026
Where: 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls
Christmas Light Tour
Hop aboard Kingston Trolley Tours’ festive 75-minute sightseeing tour of holiday lights throughout the city.
The excursion features spectacular sights of dazzling, twinkling and sparkling lights accompanied by popular Christmas songs and carols.
When: December 2–31, 2026
Where: 248 Ontario Street, Kingston
Ontario’s festive holiday and Christmas train rides and rail attractions deliver endless entertainment and good cheer during the holiday season.
Last updated: September 22, 2026