NORTHAMPTON — Santa’s Trains will once again be returning to Look Memorial Park this December and will be celebrating a special milestone in the 50th anniversary of Santa’s Workshop at Look Park.
This year’s theme is “The Simplicity and Wonder of a Child’s Christmas: Celebrating 50 years of Santa at Look Park.” Marking the 50th anniversary of Santa’s Workshop, the nights at the park will highlight the essence of this milestone by celebrating the simplicity, spirit and beauty of a child’s Christmas, the founding principle of what has become a beloved event for the park.
“I have people that tell me they used to bring their kids here and now they bring their grandkids here, or they came here with their parents and now they come with their kids and it’s a family tradition for so many people in the area,” said Look Park Development Director Marie Brazeau. “It has a special place in the community and people know they can rely on it every year to be the best experience for them.”
Brazeau added the nostalgia for many as well as the new family memories made each year make for the events popularity and why its had success for decades.
“It really brings it back to that tradition. For 50 years at Look Park, we really wanted to bring core values and the beautiful traditions that make the holiday season so fun for everyone involved.”
The public is invited to the Garden House inside the park for 11 total nights of festive fun featuring railcars and holiday trees split from Dec. 12-15 to Dec. 18-23, from 4-8 p.m. and one final time the morning of Dec. 24. Last year, the event welcomed nearly 20,000 visitors during its run.
“The holiday season is in full swing here at Look Park and we are thrilled to prepare for Santa’s 50th year visiting our park,” said Look Park Executive Director Justin Pelis. “This magical time of year brings our community and cherished business partners together to create unforgettable memories for children and families, both near and far. As executive director, I’m honored and proud to be part of this beloved tradition.”
Pelis added this will be his seventh year being a part of Santa’s Trains, but like many others, he has enjoyed its festivities much longer.
“This event brings back so many great memories and I hope this year’s theme does that for everyone who joins us,” Pelis said.
Alongside the main attraction will be Look Park’s Holiday Market at Santa’s Trains, which will take place on the expanded Garden House patio. The market will feature holiday treats, beverages for all ages, local vendors and much more each night.
Santa’s Trains will also feature the return of Molly the Trolley which visitors can ride throughout the park and view the Winter Wonderland lights display. The trolley ride is $5 a person and showcases the light displays in the park.
The Winter Wonderland lights display will begin the day after Thanksgiving and is a free to drive through in the evening once it is dark.
“Almost all the displays were built in house by our team. There are nearly 50 displays,” Brazeau added, crediting the Look Park team for their preparation and efforts for the spectacle. “Come through, enjoy the lights and bring your families.”
