Ho, ho, ho! It’s already November, and Santa Claus is all set for Christmas. You can get a head start and secure your spot for the most magical time of the year aboard the Special Christmas Train, which runs between Campinas and Jaguariúna on Saturdays from November through December.
This edition has a special theme, but the traditional ride takes place year-round. In total, the round-trip route is about 50 kilometers.
The event is organized by the Brazilian Railway Preservation Association (ABPF). Therefore, all proceeds go directly to the organization’s initiatives, which restore and preserve historic trains and promote efforts that keep the state’s railway heritage alive.
The Special Christmas Train
The traditional steam locomotive is adorned with Christmas-themed decorations and special lighting that stands out at dusk. In fact, Santa Claus and his helpers make an appearance before departure, at 5:30 p.m., to interact with visitors.
During the trip, Christmas carols set the mood for the journey to the final station, which also features special holiday decorations.
In addition to meeting Santa Claus, the program includes the distribution of treats. For an additional fee on top of the ticket price, you can include snack kits and even have Santa Claus personally deliver gifts.
This year, the organization is also offering a parallel experience called “Coffee with Santa,” organized by Maccari Eventos in partnership with the ABPF Campinas Regional Chapter. The event accommodates up to 30 people in a fully restored historic dining car from the 1940s.
However, this activity has a separate fee and includes a table-served breakfast with tastings alongside Santa Claus.
The Tour Itinerary
- 5:00 p.m.: Passengers are welcomed at Anhumas Station in Campinas
- 5:30 p.m.: Arrival of Santa Claus and his helpers
- 6:00 p.m.: Train departs for Jaguariúna
- 7:30 p.m.: Arrival in Jaguariúna
- 9:30 p.m.: Return trip to Campinas
- 10:30 p.m.: Arrival at Anhumas Station (Schedules are subject to change)
Overall, the entire trip lasts about 5½ hours, including the welcome reception, the train ride, and a 2-hour stop in Jaguariúna—free time for those who wish to have dinner in town.
Plan your trip
Four dates have been confirmed for this season: November 28 and December 5, 12, and 19. The boarding point in Campinas is located at Rua Doutor Antônio Duarte da Conceição, 1501, Jardim Madalena.
Finally, tickets start at R$ 150; children ages 6 to 12 pay starting at R$ 105; and children 5 and under pay R$ 65.
The optional gift delivery service by Santa Claus costs R$ 35 (visitors can bring a gift from home or purchase a souvenir on site).
