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Christmas Train at Irvine Regional Park
Orange, CA
Enchanting train ride to meet Santa Claus.
About
Embark on a magical journey aboard the Christmas Train at Irvine Park Railroad, where holiday cheer comes to life. This enchanting ride takes families through Irvine Regional Park to the North Pole, offering children a special opportunity to meet Santa Claus, share their wish lists, and capture memorable photos. The return trip is illuminated by colorful Christmas lights and the captivating 'Tunnel of Lights,' creating a truly festive experience.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, magical, cheerful
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Activity Tickets: $8.00 each. Book of 15 activity tickets: $100.00. Photo with Santa: $15.00 per photo. Irvine Regional Park Entrance Fee: Weekdays $3.00 per vehicle, Weekends $5.00 per vehicle, Holidays $7.00 per vehicle.
Duration
Varies by day, typically 4-5 hours of operation
Ages
Under 24 months FREE
Schedule
The Christmas Train operates from November 28th to December 23rd. Weekday hours are 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, and weekend hours are 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM. From December 15th to December 23rd, hours are extended to 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily. Santa's Village is open daily from 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM on weekends, with extended hours from December 16th to December 23rd (10:00 AM - 9:00 PM).
Organizer
Irvine Park Railroad
Practical Information
Parking
Weekdays: $3.00 per vehicle, Weekends: $5.00 per vehicle, Holidays: $7.00 per vehicle. Parking is FREE after 6:00 pm.
Accessibility
https://www.irvineparkrailroad.com/accessibility-statement/
Pet Policy
No pets allowed on the Christmas Train; dogs are welcome in other park areas on a leash.
Food & Drink
A full-service snack bar at the train station serves hot and cold food.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase your Christmas Train tickets online as soon as they become available on November 3rd, 2025, as they sell out rapidly.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ticket time to ensure you are in line for boarding.
- Dress in layers and bring a camera to capture the festive lights and your visit with Santa.
- Consider visiting Santa's Village before or after your train ride for additional holiday activities.
- Check the Irvine Regional Park entrance fee schedule for weekdays, weekends, and holidays to budget accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Christmas Train experience work?
After purchasing tickets online, guests board the train within 30 minutes of their ticketed time. The train travels to the North Pole where children can visit Santa and take photos. Passengers then re-board for the return trip through the 'Tunnel of Lights' back to Santa's Village.
When do Christmas Train tickets go on sale?
Tickets go on sale online only, starting November 3rd, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
What is the difference between the Christmas Train and the Train of Lights?
The Christmas Train (Nov 28 - Dec 23) includes a stop at the North Pole to visit Santa. The Train of Lights (Dec 26 - Dec 30) is a scenic ride through holiday lights without stops.
Can I use my regular train tickets for the Christmas Train?
No, regular train tickets, discounts, or coupons are not valid for the Christmas Train. Separate advance online purchase is required.
What happens if it rains?
The Christmas Train operates rain or shine. Visitors are advised to bring umbrellas or rain jackets as the train is not fully enclosed.