Pictures And Video: Santa Train Runs Today Through Appalachia

This is one of those truly heart-touching and special events that touches the lives of those giving as well as receiving.  I try to make mention of this weekend each year, and would encourage donations to this most wonderful cause.

The Santa Train is the world’s largest Santa Parade, 110-miles in route. Now in its 69th year, the Santa Train is an annual train journey through Appalachia where volunteers from Kingsport take 15 tons of gifts, candies and toys to children in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. Thousands of families in rural communities turn out to welcome the Santa Train to their hometowns each year.  The starting point is  in Shelby, Kentucky.

For many Appalachian families, the Santa Train represents the traditional commencement of the holiday season. Each year,  representatives from the train’s four sponsors distribute toys and other gifts to thousands of people gathered at 14 stops along the train’s route.

This year, Kids Wish Network donated more than $500,000 worth of toys, the largest donation in the history of the event.