Chamber of Commerce, Monticello Illinois

Join us on December 7th and 8th for the 2024 Lunch with Santa on the Train at the Wabash Depot in Monticello, Illinois, a holiday favorite with kids of all ages.

Enjoy a train ride, an individual visit with Santa, and a kid-friendly sack lunch. Our Coach Class Tickets are $25 per person.

The Dining Car Experience is for 4 riders (one table) in one of two dining cars. Turkey sandwiches from Subway of Monticello with chips, a cookie, and water are included along with a commemorative keepsake. While in the Dining Car, there will be coloring pages and games to enjoy at the table! The Dining Car experience is $165 per table. 

Would you like a Private Car Experience and ride the rails like a railroad baron? You can enjoy an exclusive experience aboard Illinois Central Business Car #7! The price is for the use of the observation lounge in our private car with space for up to 12 passengers of any age. You will be provided turkey sandwich meals from Subway of Monticello for up to 12, fun activities to enjoy during the ride, a family fun Christmas basket for you and your guests, 4 commemorative keepsakes, and some extra goodies for dessert. The Private Care Experience costs $850 for up to 12 people.

*IMPORTANT NOTE: The 11:15 a.m. train on Saturday, December 2 takes place during the Monticello Christmas parade. Those who ride the 11:15 a.m. train will miss the parade.

Check out our frequently asked questions (FAQ) below.

How much do tickets cost?

Who needs a ticket?

Anyone 2 and older will need a ticket. Those under 2 must sit on a lap and will not receive a meal without buying a ticket.  (If choosing the Dining Car Experience it will not be easy to hold a child on your lap as the space is limited. For the comfort of your group, we suggest they be included in your headcount.)

Where are my tickets/Where will the train load?

Your tickets will be ready for pickup at the depot in downtown Monticello located at the corner of Livingston and Independence Streets (use 200 E Livingston St, Monticello IL 61856 for GPS) on the day of your train. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to ensure time to pick up tickets and board the train. Tickets will not be mailed out.

How long is the train ride?

The ride is about an hour long.

Will my child get to meet Santa personally?

Santa will visit with each child individually during the train ride.

What is in the lunch?

Coach tickets receive lunch for a kid – a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, chips, and a drink. Everyone with a coach ticket will receive a lunch. Cheese sandwiches are available on request for those with allergies.  Dining Car tickets receive a turkey Subway sandwich, chips, cookie, and a bottle of water for each rider (4).  Private car riders receive a turkey Subway sandwich, chips, a cookie, and a bottle of water for each rider (12).

Restrooms?

There are no restrooms on the train.  Plan to use the restrooms in the depot or across the street, inside the Wabash Center before the ride.