Frequently Asked Questions:
DO I NEED TO BUY A TICKET IN ADVANCE?
Yes. To attend this event, a ticket must be pre-purchased for each person to ride the train (children must be accompanied by an adult). Access to Santa’s Village is included with your train ride, and will not be sold separately. For those who physically cannot ride the trains, but do want to attend with their group, we are happy to work with you so that your whole group can enjoy the Christmas Village together.
No tickets will be available to purchase onsite.
Visit our Know Before You Go Page for additional information!
How does the event work?
The event is designed for you to arrive on site, check-in, board your scheduled train departure, then you’ll disembark into Santa’s Village to experience all the Holiday magic. Because the train ride is a loop, when you are done, you will be able to walk back to your car from the Village.
Can we enjoy Santa’s Village before our train ride?
Yes, the Village kicks off around 4:00 PM. You are welcome to visit before your train departure, but please be sure to check in and line up for your train in plenty of time. If you miss your scheduled departure, we can not guarantee a seat on another train.
What time should I arrive?
We recommend you arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the time of your train's departure. If you miss your train’s boarding, we can not guarantee another departure. We have plenty to do before your ride, so come and enjoy!
Is there assigned seating on the train?
No, but you are guaranteed a spot on the specific train ride you purchase. Your ticket is only good for the specific train and time that you purchase. As we saw in 2023, we expect the event to be sold out.
Are there restrooms on the train?
No. Restrooms are available at the stations.
What if it's raining?
This is a rain-or-shine event. Be prepared for all weather conditions. We do reserve the right to reschedule train trips in the event of severe weather conditions. You will be notified through the email you give to My805tix in registering.
Can I bring my own food and drinks? AND Can I take my food or drinks onto the trains?
You may NOT bring your own food or drinks to this event and no food or drinks are allowed on the trains. Non-alcoholic drinks, wine, beer, and cocktails will be available for purchase. Your ticket does include one free cookie too.
Will there be food at the event?
YES! We will be having food trucks available to buy dinner and snacks. Please remember to bring cash/cards for these vendors.
What are the differences in trains?
This year, both trains will be powered by historic steam engines. One will be towing three of the original passenger cars built by Walt Disney for the opening of Disneyland. The second train will be towing open side cars along with a caboose. Both offer unique and fun ways to ride the rails.
Can we ride in the train cab?
YES! New for this year, paid cab rides will be offered giving you a behind-the-scenes experience and opportunity to get a close up look at a working steam locomotive.
Must be at least 15 years old (12 years old acceptable, if accompanied by an adult) and closed toe shoes and long pants required. Please be sure to read other conditions outlined in our FAQ Sheet.
Very limited tickets available for this opportunity, $100/person for cab rides.
What is included with the purchase of my ticket?
A Christmas-themed train ride through the beautiful Santa Margarita Ranch with decorations along the way to view. Entrance into the village after the train ride to meet Santa along with his village filled with fire pits, games, magic show, and access to a marketplace.
Other items available for additional cost onsite may include: food, beverages, pony rides, face painting, art classes, and marketplace purchases.
What about wheelchair access on the train?
Unfortunately, these historic trains do not provide wheelchair access. If you have specific questions, please reach out to us and we can discuss options.
What about parking?
There will be signage and guides to direct you to plenty of free on-site parking once you arrive at Santa Margarita Ranch. (Entry to the ranch is at 9000 Yerba Buena Ave in downtown Santa Margarita, off El Camino Real). Please drive slowly and respectfully by our neighbors as you enter and exit.
What about kids' tickets?
Kids 2 & under are free and must sit on the lap of an adult. Reduced price tickets for kids 3-12 are available, and 13+ must purchase general admission tickets.
What are the event grounds like?
This event is being held at a working ranch so be prepared for walking on dirt and uneven ground. You can also learn more here.
Can I bring my pet?
NO, pets are not allowed, we are a working ranch and there are the potential for wild animals that could create a problem with pets.
What is the address of the Ranch?
9000 Yerba Buena Ave, Santa Margarita. Please respect our neighbors and drive slowly.
Is there a local place to stay?
Yes, our lodging partner, Visit Atascadero has many great options available. Click here to learn more.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Pre-purchased tickets ONLY. There will be no access to the event area without pre-purchased tickets.
• Please feel free to allow kids to wear PJs (note that it can be very cold, but the large barn is heated).
Refund Policy
All items are non-refundable. HOWEVER: If you purchase before October 31 and need to exchange to a different date/time, so long as space is available, we are happy to accommodate that with advance notice. We do expect the event to sell-out, so the faster you reach out to us, the better.
Age Restriction
Kids of all ages are welcome!