(The following story by David Perlmutt appeared on the Charlotte Observer website on November 17.)
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — To prepare for the big day, the bearded man in the red suit will be touring the N.C. Piedmont on board Amtrak Santa trains on Dec. 6, leaving Rudolph and his pals at home to rest.
Santa Claus will ride the Piedmont (train 73) and the Carolinian (train 80) between Raleigh and Charlotte and spend time with some of the children he’ll visit later in the month — when they’re asleep.
“Riding the train with family and friends and taking advantage of some leisurely time with Santa is a great way to get in the holiday spirits,” N.C. Transportation Secretary Lyndo Tippett said Monday.
Passengers interested in the Santa Train Raleigh excursion can board train 73 southbound for Greensboro, then make the return trip on train 80 northbound. Those wanting to ride the Santa Train Charlotte can board train 80 northbound for Salisbury and return on train 73 southbound.
Reservations are required and early reservations recommended. Children younger than 2 ride free with an adult. Children 2 to 15 pay half price and seniors 62 or older get a discount.
For schedules and prices go to www.bytrain.org. For reservations go to www.Amtrak.com, the nearest Amtrak station or call 1-800-USA-RAIL (872-7245).