The Santa Train marks its 82nd running this year, bringing presents and joy to small towns along a 110-mile portion of the CSX rail line.

The CSX Santa Train delivers toys to children along a 110-mile portion of the CSX rail line tucked into remote coal-country river valleys of Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. (AP video: George Walker

For the 82nd year, CSX’s Santa Train made its journey over the former Clinchfield Railroad on Saturday, Nov. 23, traveling from Shelby, Ky., to Kingsport, Tenn., in an approximately 9-hour, 110-mile trip featuring a dozen intermediate stops in which Santa Claus and volunteers distributed gifts to those visiting the train at trackside.

Santa Claus waves to people during the 82nd run of the CSX Santa Train, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, in Kermit, Va. The train brings presents to small towns along a 110-mile portion of the railroad line in rural Appalachian Tennessee, Kentucky and Virginia.

Loaded with gifts packed by its Jacksonville employees, the CSX Santa Train and CEO Joe Hinrichs delivered joy in Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia.

Not in a sleigh on their rooftops, but on a train. The Santa Train marks its 82nd running this year, bringing presents and joy to small towns along a 110-mile portion of the CSX rail line tucked into remote coal-country river valleys. Many of the children ...