Second annual event features expanded holiday ranch festivities

SANTA MARGARITA — The historic Santa Margarita Ranch will once again host an extravaganza of steam trains, festive lights, sights, food and song as the second annual  “Christmas at the Ranch” invites one and all to launch the holiday season amid the warmth of western hospitality. 

“Christmas at the Ranch” takes place on nine weekend afternoons/evenings from Nov. 29 through Dec. 22, with all proceeds benefitting the ranch’s nonprofit event collaborators, AGM Community Partners, and Vintage Traditions Foundation. Tickets ($40 general; $25 ages 3 – 12; ages 2 and younger free) must be purchased online in advance and are on track to sell out.

All attendees enter the event on one of two authentic steam engine locomotives, one with open-air cars and one that pulls three train cars used in the first years that Disneyland opened its doors. One car has just been refurbished to like-new condition after an 11-month restoration. “Attendees will get to see what the train car looked like when it was new on Disneyland’s opening day in 1955,” said Steve Rossi, co-founder and coordinator of Christmas at the Ranch. 

The nearly two-mile train ride treats guests to illuminated festive sights before stopping at Santa’s Village. Here, riders disembark and may enjoy carolers; a visit with Santa; a magic show; dinner and snack food trucks; face painting; games such as cornhole and roping; fire-roasted s’mores; pony rides; a “letters to Santa” station; and holiday coffees and craft cocktails for the adults.

Guests are even invited to try out an authentic railroad hand car on a bit of available track. New this year is the Christmas Vendor Marketplace, which features regionally made artisanal jewelry, leather goods, candles and much more. Firepits, as well as indoor and outdoor seating, are available to all.

“Honoring feedback from last year we have greatly expanded our food truck offerings and will also offer trains in the late afternoon in order to accommodate little ones who have an early bedtime,” Rossi said. “My wife and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to create a Central Coast event where families can have a relaxing evening and feel the excitement as the Christmas spirit unfolds.”

For more information visit, ChristmasattheMargarita.com