Holiday Train set to return after pandemic hiatus

Caltrain Holiday Train aims to spread cheer, collect donations

in A&E/Community

The Caltrain Holiday Train is set to spread holiday cheer across the Peninsula this weekend, making a number of cheerful stops along the way, including in Redwood City, where a tree lighting will occur at Courthouse Square  right before the holiday train is scheduled to arrive.

Community members are encouraged to visit the holiday-themed train stops and to bring toys or books to donate. The Holiday Train Toy Drivas collected and given to families in need.

On Saturday, the Caltrain Holiday Train will depart from San Francisco at 4 p.m. and will make stops in Redwood City (from 6:10 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.), Mountain View (6:50 p.m.-7:10 p.m.), Sunnyvale (7:30 p.m.-7:50 p.m.) and Santa Clara (8 p.m.-8:20 p.m.).

On Sunday, the train will leave at 4 p.m. and make stops in Millbrae (5:40 p.m.-6 p.m.), Burlingame (6:10 p.m.-6:30 p.m.), San Mateo (6:40 p.m.-7 p.m.) and Menlo Park (7:25 p.m.-7:45 p.m).

For those visiting the Holiday Train’s Redwood City stop, note that the city’s annual tree lighting will take place from 6 p.m. to 6:10 p.m. that evening at Courthose Square, 2200 Broadway St. In addition to the tree-lighting, The Merrie Olde Christmas Carolers will perform amid seasonal decorations that includes an oversized ornament. It’s the perfect spot for a selfie or holiday photos, the city notes.

Meanwhile from 4-7 p.m. Saturday in San Mateo, a Winter Wonderland is coming to Central Park, 50 E. 5th Ave. The winter-themed event will feature a DJ, arts and crafts, games, food and more, and the Police Activities League will sell fun light-up items at the event, along with student-made ceramic works (cash only).