Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train - OMG that was so FUN!

We went to the Irvine Regional Park last night to ride the Christmas Train - IT WAS SO FUN!!

When we got there it was after dark - and I mean d-a-r-k! Then all of a sudden you see this beautiful glow off in the distance.



When we got to the entry gate we were very happy to see that the gates were open and there was no charge for entrance!

Note to you all: You can avoid the $4.00 - $5.00 entry fee by going after 5:00 p.m.

So we parked and I'm telling you, it was that same feeling you get when you were little and you pulled up to Disneyland. The lights and sounds, and the excitement in the air was magical!



Kids were squealing with excitement, and the parents were almost as excited as the kids! The line was long, but moved very quickly once the train arrived each time, so it wasn't bad at all.




The park was covered in lights and decorations, and was a sight to see for sure.





It did start to sprinkle when we arrived, and that became a light rain, but it really wasn't a big deal because where you line up is covered, and the train has a roof on it. So again - no big deal. And I have to admit that the rain actually made everything glow and reflect, so it was even more beautiful.

And the conductors were keeping the kids entertained by walking around and talking to them, and juggling!



Then it was our turn! We boarded the train and got ready for our trip to see Santa.

Another note to you: Best seats - very back. You're facing the rear of the train, so you can see everything as it goes by with nothing blocking your view.

Traveling through the park and seeing all the lights and decorations along the way was so cool. Then there was another glow off in the distance, and it was Santa's Village.



We departed Santa's Village after letting people off and boarding others, and then the train continued on for a great light show through the tunnel, and past the old cabin, where it was snowing (yes, it was snowing) - and finished up back at the train station.



The staff was super friendly, and everyone had a great time.

If you have any time at all, take your family for a ride on the Christmas Train. It's a fun activity for everyone, without the full-day committment. I'm going back, and I'll be back every year!