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Holiday Express to make its way through Vicksburg on Nov. 27

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Holiday Express train

Vicksburg is all set to welcome the enchanting KCS Holiday Express on Nov. 27. The festive six-car train, adorned with intricate holiday-themed displays both inside and out, will traverse through 20 communities across eight states, sharing the holiday spirit. Not only will children and families get a chance to witness this magical journey, but they will also have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and his elves. The entire schedule can be accessed here.

The KCS Holiday Express initiative isn’t just about spreading joy; it also embodies the spirit of giving. Over the years, the project has consistently made charitable donations to The Salvation Army. Patrick J. Ottensmeyer, the president and CEO, expressed his excitement about the train’s journey. He also emphasized the importance of the charitable aspect of the project and appreciated the donors’ continuous support, especially during the past two virtual Holiday Express programs.

Spanning 21 years, the KCS Holiday Express has successfully raised over $2.6 million. For those looking to contribute to the 2022 KCS Holiday Express fundraiser, they can make a tax-deductible donation here.

Major Kelly Collins, the divisional commander of The Salvation Army of Kansas and Western Missouri, highlighted the importance of the KCS Holiday Express. He mentioned that the initiative has been instrumental in providing Christmas joy to thousands of children in need. The longstanding 22-year commitment of KCS with the Holiday Express has brought smiles and gratitude from staff, volunteers, officers, and especially the beneficiaries.

The origins of the KCS Holiday Express trace back to the Santa Train tradition, which KCS inherited after acquiring a segment of the network in 1997. Recognizing that for some children, the Santa Train was their sole source of Christmas cheer, a group of benevolent KCS employees decided to expand upon this heartwarming endeavor. By 2001, the KCS Holiday Express was born, created by transforming a retired freight train. For 19 years before the pandemic, the train toured through various communities, allowing people to board, interact with Santa and his elves, and enjoy the festive ambiance. After a two-year hiatus, this free public event is back for 2022.

KCS, with its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, is an eminent transportation holding company with rail investments stretching across the U.S., Mexico, and Panama. Its North American rail holdings, combined with strategic alliances, create a unique railway system connecting major commercial and industrial centers across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

2023 Holiday Express schedule

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