Scouts on track for Santa Express 2025, and Christmas magic on the rails

All aboard! The Santa Express rolls back into Mullingar this December, offering families a Christmas experience like no other — a festive journey on a real train by the shores of Lough Owel and through Westneath's beautiful winter countryside. Combining festive fun, and the timeless excitement of railway travel, it’s a highlight of the Midlands Christmas calendar.

For one weekend only, Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December, families will step on to the old Galway line platform at Mullingar Station, transformed into a festive wonderland.

Visitors can enjoy live music, post their letters to Santa, meet favourite characters, and capture photos in Santa’s sleigh. Families can also pick up hot drinks, snacks and festive treats at the Candy Cane Café before boarding, while a sensory room and dedicated sensory carriage on every service ensure the event is welcoming for everyone. The event is also wheelchair and buggy accessible.

Every child receives a festive gift bag filled with treats and activities before boarding, and infants under two receive their own special gifts. Once on the train, the magic continues with beautifully decorated carriages, lively elves leading, games and carols, and of course a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus.

David Joyce, regional customer experience manager, Irish Rail, said: “We are delighted to host the 9th Westmeath Scouts’ Santa Express once again. The last two years have been a wonderful success and a great example of community spirit. It is also lovely to see a new generation of children getting excited about travelling by train.”

Event coordinator Fiona O’Shea added: “Parents are always looking for something a little different at Christmas, and the Santa Express offers exactly that — a magical trip on a real train where children can meet Santa, sing with the elves and enjoy every moment."

The Santa Express has already welcomed around 1,400 visitors each year and has quickly become a popular Christmas event.

Planned and delivered by volunteers, the event is organised by 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scout Group, now a registered charity. Proceeds will support the Scout Group’s ambitious plans for their own permanent Scout Den, while also benefiting local causes. This year, the event will again proudly support Focus Ireland, Irish Rail’s Christmas charity partner, along with other local good causes.

Tickets and all you need to know are available from https://9thwestmeathscouts.com/santa-express-2025. Prices start at €22.50 for adults and €30 for children, with children’s tickets including a festive gift bag and present from Santa.

Adult + Infant (under two, on lap) tickets from €27.50, which include a special infant gift. With just four trains across the weekend, early booking is strongly advised.