If Santa had his own train, it would certainly stop in a place named Star. This tiny town has always been known for its holiday spirit: Its Christmas parade is one of the oldest in the state. The post office holds a holiday stamp cancellation contest each year. And Starworks, its arts center, draws shoppers from all around for an annual ornament sale. So is it any surprise that Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway chose Star as a stop for its new Carolina Christmas Train?
As the whistle reverberates through the December night, families with children — some clad in pajamas — board the train from a hub of twinkling lights in front of Starworks. Joyful carols ring out over the intercom, and scents of hot cocoa and sugar cookies fill the train cars. Children savor their sweets between visits with such lauded guests as Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch.
The Carolina Christmas Train offers people a way to experience the area’s century-old railway heritage. photograph by Jerry Wolford & Scott Muthersbaugh
During the hour-long ride, the train stops at the circa-1919 Little River trestle. At 125 feet, it’s the highest in the county — providing the perfect vantage point for a light show set to festive music.
As children and their parents depart, they pass once more through a maze of lights. From there, they’ll head home, where visions of sugar cookies and holiday trains are sure to dance in their heads.
For more information about the Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway’s Carolina Christmas Train, visit acwr.com/excursions.
All aboard! This magic-filled train ride through a Montgomery County wonderland includes seasonal sweets, plenty of cheer, and a few extra-special passengers.
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