Winter Wonderland – Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa Express Train Rides
Presented in partnership with the City of Southgate, festivities begin with a tree lighting ceremony featuring caroling, city officials, and Santa's arrival on a fire truck. Passengers then board miniature trains operated by the Great Lakes Live Steamers that travel through a wonderland of lights and sparkles. The short scenic ride journeys to the North Pole for a visit with Santa.
What to Expect
Ride through holiday lights to visit Santa at the North Pole.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Southgate
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and whimsical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Donations cheerfully accepted; no set ticket price is stated.
- Hours: Tree lighting starts at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 4; Santa arrives by fire truck at 5:45 pm; train rides begin at 6:00 p.m. both days and run until 9:00 p.m.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive in time for the tree lighting to see carolers, city officials and Santa pulling up on a fire truck before the train rides start.
- Bring a donation for the Great Lakes Live Steamers, who cheerfully accept them for the train rides to the North Pole.
- Keep an eye on the forecast before heading out, because the Santa Express train rides run only when weather permits.
- Bundle up for an evening ride, since the miniature trains travel out through a wonderland of lights to the North Pole and Santa.
Special Events & Promotions
- A tree lighting ceremony with city officials, caroling and Santa arriving on a fire truck, followed by the first train rides.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the tree lighting?
City officials and carolers gather, Santa arrives on a fire truck and the Christmas tree is lit. The train rides start right after.
What is the train ride like?
Great Lakes Live Steamers runs miniature trains through a winter wonderland of lights and sparkles. The short ride goes to the North Pole for a visit with Santa.
Does it run in bad weather?
The train rides run weather permitting.
More Christmas Events Near Southgate
More Christmas Events near Southgate
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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.