2008 Santa Train with Kathy Mattea

The Santa Train has spread holiday cheer through Appalachia, bringing gifts and goodies to children and adults alike. In 2008, the train made it's 66th trek through Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. Kathy Mattea rode along with the crew and helped distribute 15 tons of toys and gifts to thousands of people.

Patty Loveless, Alison Krauss, Naomi Judd, Travis Tritt and Rebecca Lynn Howard have been among the on-board celebrity guests in recent years. Several governors, U.S. senators and representatives, and other local, state and federal officials have also participated in the annual event.

The annual project, co-sponsored by CSXT, Food City and the Kingsport (Tennessee) Area Chamber of Commerce, is one of Appalachia's most anticipated holiday traditions.

2007 Santa Train with Patty Loveless

For 65 years, the Santa Train has spread holiday cheer through Appalachia, bringing gifts and goodies to children and adults alike.

The train makes 14 stops in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee the weekend before Thanksgiving, to distribute 15 tons of toys and gifts to thousands of people.

Patty Loveless, Alison Krauss, Naomi Judd, Travis Tritt and Rebecca Lynn Howard have been among the on-board celebrity guests in recent years. Several governors, U.S. senators and representatives, and other local, state and federal officials have also participated in the annual event.

The annual project, co-sponsored by CSXT, Food City and the Kingsport (Tennessee) Area Chamber of Commerce, is one of Appalachia's most anticipated holiday traditions.