Santa's Train returns for Brockport visit

Santa's Train will be rolling in along side Park Avenue Station again this holiday season. Building on the success of last year's Niagara and Western New York Railroad excursions, this year's train will be operated by the Medina Railroad Museum. "We're really looking forward to bringing our train to Brockport. Last year was a very successful run, this year will be even better," said Linda Klein of the museum.

The Santa Train, with Santa and his helpers aboard, will make three, one-hour round trips each day between Brockport and Fancher. The trains feature four refurbished New York Central Budd stainless steel coaches. Manufactured in 1947, the heated coaches, complete with restrooms, will provide a comfortable ride in the winter weather.

"We're excited to have the trains come back to Brockport. They were a real hit here last year," according to Mayor Josephine Matela. The mayor noted that she rode the train twice last year and that, "it's a must for enthusiasts, those who are looking to relive the old days, or those who wish to experience trains for the first time."

The train brought over a thousand people into the Village of Brockport in the course of two weekend runs last year. "We had folks come from as far away as Syracuse. Many of them took advantage of special discount offers by our merchants to shop and dine while they were in the village," said Scott Winner, economic development/marketing coordinator for the village. "We'll be inviting visitors to come downtown again this year."

The trains are scheduled to run Saturday, December 20 and Sunday December 21. Departure times are 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. both days. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for children 3-16 years old, 2 years old and under are free. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted. Call (585) 798-6106 or visit www.railroadmuseum.net for information.