We still call it the Christmas train and it’s making several stops in Wisconsin.
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is more than just a seasonal spectacle; it’s a heartwarming tradition that chugs through the snowy landscapes of Canada and the United States, spreading holiday cheer and supporting food banks along its route. Launched in 1999 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this festive locomotive is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, transforming it into a moving beacon of holiday spirit.
Each year, as the first snows begin to fall, the Holiday Train embarks on its journey, its cars painted with yuletide scenes and festooned with wreaths and garlands. The train doesn’t just offer visual delight; it also hosts impromptu concerts at various stops, featuring performances by local and sometimes nationally-recognized musicians, who play from a stage car, serenading spectators with Christmas carols and holiday hits.
But the true magic of the Holiday Train lies in its philanthropy. At each whistle-stop, communities gather not only to marvel at the spectacle but to donate to local food banks. Since its inception, the initiative has collected over 5.5 million meals, embodying the spirit of giving during the season of goodwill. This moving celebration of lights, music, and generosity has become a cherished tradition, reminding everyone of the warmth and community that the holidays are meant to foster.he Holiday Train will visit communities across the CPKC network in Canada and the U.S. in November and December 2024, raising food, money and awareness for local food banks and food pantry organizations
Wisconsin Christmas Holiday Train Schedule
Here’s a look at the train’s schedule in Wisconsin:
December 7
Sturtevant arrival at 7:00 p.m. — Amtrak Depot, 9900 E. Exploration Ct.
Caledonia arrival at 8:15 p.m. — Railway crossing at 11402 County Road G
December 8
Wauwatosa arrival at 4:15 p.m. — Harwood Avenue railway crossing
Hartland arrival at 5:45 p.m. — Railway crossing at Cottonwood Avenue
Oconomowoc arrival at 6:45 p.m. — South Silver Lake Street railway crossing
Watertown arrival at 8:00 p.m. — Brandt Quirk Park parking lot (ball diamond) adjacent to CPKC tracks
Columbus arrival at 9:15 p.m. — Amtrak Depot, 395 N Ludington Street
December 9
Portage arrival at 1:15 p.m. — CPKC yard adjacent to Averbeck Street
Wisconsin Dells arrival at 2:45 p.m. — Amtrak Depot, 100 La Crosse Street
Mauston arrival at 4:15 p.m. — Division Street railway crossing
Tomah arrival at 5:30 p.m. — Amtrak Depot, 205 North Superior Avenue
Sparta arrival at 6:50 p.m. — Corner of S. Water Street and Milwaukee (south side of CPKC tracks)
La Crosse arrival at 8:30 p.m. — Amtrak Station, 601 Saint Andrew Street