Illustration of Santa posing with a family on a bench under string lights for a photographer (Santa's Candy Cane Express)

Santa's Candy Cane Express

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

All aboard for a magical Christmas experience at Santa's Candy Cane Express! This event offers a nostalgic journey on a real steam engine, where children can meet Santa Claus in an authentic railroad caboose. Warm up with hot cocoa at Doc's Soda Fountain and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Hesston Steam Museum operates its historic railroads, providing a unique glimpse into the golden age of steam.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

$

Ages

All ages

Food & Drink

Hot cocoa available at Doc's Soda Fountain.

Parking

Never a charge for parking.

Going?

Location

Hesston Steam Museum · 1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Nostalgic, festive, family-friendly

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early, especially if traveling with young children, as Santa's caboose can get busy. Consider purchasing tickets in advance online to secure your spot.
  • Dress warmly, as the event takes place outdoors and involves train rides. Layers are recommended, and gloves are a good idea for cooler December weather.
  • Check the museum's website for any weather-related updates, as heavy snow may affect train operations. Tickets will be refunded if small trains do not operate due to weather.
  • Take advantage of the free parking and explore the Hesston Steam Museum's other attractions, such as the steam sawmill, before or after your train ride.
  • Bring cash for small purchases like popcorn, as some vendors may not accept cards. Doc's Soda Fountain is a great place to grab a warm drink and a treat.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Visit Santa in a real railroad caboose
  • Hot cocoa available at Doc's Soda Fountain

Links & Contact

Run by La Porte County Historical Steam Society Inc

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do the trains depart?

Trains depart at frequent intervals between Noon and 4:00 PM Central Time.

Is there an admission fee for the event?

No, there is no admission fee for this event. Tickets are required for the train rides.

What happens if there is bad weather?

In case of heavy snow, if the small trains do not operate, your tickets will be refunded.

Can I purchase tickets at the venue?

Tickets are available online in advance or at the ticket booth on the day of your visit.

What are the operating hours of Doc's Soda Fountain?

Doc's Soda Fountain is open during the event hours, offering hot cocoa and other treats.

Browse Christmas in LaPorte

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.

Contributors & Updates

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