Couple posing on a decorated train with other passengers in the background.

Press Release

RIVER FOX TRAIN UNVEILS AN ALL-NEW MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TRAIN EXPERIENCE

November 22, 2025

West Sacramento, CA – The River Fox Train invites guests to jingle all the way aboard its reimagined Magical Christmas Train, now featuring an all-new Santa’s Village for a sparkling outdoor experience unlike anything before.

“The Magical Christmas Train is one of the most enchanting times of the year,” said Robert Jason Pinoli, President and CEO of Mendocino Railway, parent company of the River Fox Train. “For decades, this experience has brought families and friends together to pause the hustle and bustle of everyday life and share a moment of wonder. It is a cherished tradition that continues to grow, offering a place where guests can reconnect, laugh, and create lasting memories.”

This year, the River Fox Train is taking that tradition to new heights. While the Magical Christmas Train has long been a favorite for many, the team saw an opportunity to make it even more magical by utilizing the full venue to create a one-of-a-kind holiday setting not currently offered in Sacramento. The expanded experience transforms the train’s lawn area into a glowing Christmas village with photo opportunities, holiday displays, a Christmas tree farm, and immersive décor that brings storybook magic to life across the entire property. These enhancements highlight Mendocino Railway’s commitment to elevating guest experiences at the River Fox Train and reinforcing its presence as a premier attraction in West Sacramento.

This season, families can step into a dazzling winter wonderland during the one-hour journey, as Santa’s elves fill each train car with music, laughter, and festive games. Passengers can enjoy hot chocolate served in keepsake mugs, write letters to Santa, and meet Mrs. Claus before arriving at the heart of the trip, Santa’s Village—a twinkling landscape of lights, snow-dust, and the big man himself waiting to greet visitors inside his ice castle.

The Magical Christmas Train will officially begin service on November 28, running select dates through December 28. For more information and to see the full calendar visit HERE.

For more information about the River Fox Train and its unforgettable rail adventures, visit www.riverfoxtrain.com or call (800) 866-1690.

River Fox Train Built in 1911 by the Northern Electric Company, the River Fox Train’s 10-mile track originally transported passengers throughout the Sacramento area. While electric passenger service ended in 1941, the line continued operating with diesel freight, linking the fertile farmlands of the Sacramento Valley with markets across California. In 2003, Sierra Railroad merged with the Yolo Shortline, maintaining freight service and reviving passenger excursions under the name Sacramento River Train. Today, the line operates as the River Fox Train under Mendocino Railway, a Class III common carrier, and the line continues to be used in interstate commerce. A sister line to the world-famous Skunk Train built in 1885, the River Fox Train offers a blend of history and experience with scenic Railbike rides, relaxing beer and wine trains, and festive holiday adventures that celebrate the nostalgic charm of California rail travel.

Media Contacts: Kimberly Preciado, Mendocino Railway [email protected]

Images available upon request.