Date: 17. December 2025
Time to read: 1 min
When you hear the whistle of the locomotive and see steam rising above the carriages, something special is coming: a train that connects not only places, but also people, memories, and festive anticipation. Santa Claus doesn't just travel with reindeer; he also comes to Ljubljana and some other cities by steam locomotive.
He brings with him a sack full of festive cheer and gifts. He is accompanied by elves and wizards, and one of the carriages is sure to be hiding a reindeer.
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Children really enjoy the adventure of travelling around Slovenia’s festive towns. Photo: Slovenske železnice
A magical journey
The Slovenian Railways' Santa Claus Train is one of the most recognizable festive events in Slovenia. It is a themed museum ride that goes beyond ordinary rail transport, combining railway heritage, festive storytelling, and a family experience.
Children eagerly await it, while adults recognize the tradition of train travel and memories of childhood holidays that are passed down from generation to generation.
In 2025, the event will have a special significance, as steam traction will return after many years. The return of steam, the sound of the whistle, and the characteristic rhythm of the steam locomotive symbolize the beginnings of rail transport and create an authentic holiday experience that modern transport cannot replicate. The steam locomotive is not only a technical curiosity, but also a key bearer of the magic that accompanies the Christmas season.
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Each journey offers a glimpse into the engineering mastery that defined the past. Photo: Slovenske železnice
Festive moments on the train
The trips are scheduled for December 20, 21, and 27, 2025, and the routes include connections between Ljubljana, Kamnik, Grosuplje, Ivančna Gorica, Trebnje, Litija, Zidani Most, and Sevnica. They are designed so that passengers can return on regular Slovenian Railways trains.
The special feature of Santa's train is not only the steam locomotive, but the entire festive story on the train.
The carriages are decorated, children receive gifts during the journey, and Santa Claus plays the central role, eagerly awaited by the children as soon as the train arrives at the platform.
The whistle of the locomotive, the steam, and the fairy-tale characters create an atmosphere that children experience as something unique and unforgettable.
For many, riding Santa's train is a reminder of what used to be a completely normal train ride, a festive gathering, gift-giving, and showing affection among family and friends.
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A ride in museum carriages, pulled by a puffing steam locomotive and festively decorated coaches, will offer a true immersion into railway history and a special Christmas experience. Photo: Slovenske železnice
More Than a Festive Ride
Santa's train is not just a festive attraction, but an example of the successful combination of cultural heritage, sustainable mobility, and family tourism.
Each ride teaches us about the technical knowledge of the past and proves that century-old technology can still inspire today.
Especially when accompanied by steam, the sound of a whistle, and festive anticipation on the platform.
