Mr and Mrs Claus with 9th Westmeath Group leader, Fiona O’Shea, and a few of the cheeky elves, Eoghan, Aine, Jack and Saoirse!

Santa Express comes to Mullingar

Scout group on track for magical fundraiser in December

The 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scout Group invite all adventurers to join them on a journey of fun and magic this winter season.

They promise an enchanting Christmas experience, in the heart of Mullingar, filled with festive cheer and joy. The Santa Express will depart from Mullingar train station on Saturday December 9.

The experience begins when passengers arrive, and following a few photo opportunities, jovial elves will guide travellers to their seats so they can experience a real train journey and enjoy views of the Royal Canal, and then the breathtaking Lough Owel, before arriving in Longford. The return journey will then take them back to Mullingar again.

Mr and Mrs Claus will move through the carriages, making sure to meet each child and keeping a close eye on the mischievous elves. The elves’ job on the day is to provide in-service entertainment, ensuring that every moment of the journey is filled with fun and delight.

The Santa Express is mobility accessible, and will have a designated sensory carriage on select trains, which offers a quieter atmosphere, reduced noise, and simpler activities, allowing for a more enjoyable experience for all guests.

Fiona O’Shea Group leader, 9th Westmeath Scouts, said: “We understand that every child is different, and we want to make this experience accessible and enjoyable for all our guests.”

The Santa Express runs on Saturday December 9 from 1pm, and there is the possibility of additional times subject to demand. Tickets are €19.50 per person, and young infants will be admitted free of charge (please note that terms apply). Additional booking fees may apply, and tickets must be purchased online, at 9thwestmeathscouts.com, (following the links). Full details terms and conditions for The Santa Express will be available on the website also.

WinterFest Christmas market

The date of the event coincides with the Mullingar Chamber of Commerce WinterFest, allowing visitors to wander between the train station and Caffrey’s on Mount Street, where the markets are this year, and to enjoy all that Mullingar has to offer.

Fiona added: “We are excited about bringing a unique Santa experience to Mullingar, and we are grateful for all the support shown to us by Westmeath County Council, Irish Rail and Mullingar Chamber.

"The funds raised from the event will directly support 9th Westmeath Scout Group, in particular our youth members.”

The Santa Express runs between Mullingar and Longford on Saturday December 9.
All aboard for the Santa Express.