Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with your family? The Happy Holiday Railway at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union offers a magical experience that combines nostalgia and timeless tradition. Perfect for visitors of all ages, the event runs on select dates until December 22, 2025.

Weave seasonal magic through your holiday plans and while you’re in the neighborhood, visit Gerstad Builders at The Trails of Dawson Creek to tour your future home before the clock strikes midnight on 2025.

What is the Happy Holiday Railway?

The Happy Holiday Railway, an enchanting annual attraction presented by the Illinois Railway Museum, transforms the museum grounds into a festive winter wonderland. It is an immersive holiday adventure centered around a charming train ride that delights visitors year after year.

The heart of the experience is a 40-minute journey that features an animated light show and a holiday song presentation. Santa Claus himself rides the railcar with you, giving children the perfect opportunity to share their Christmas wishes. After the trip, you enjoy a complimentary treat and hot chocolate, and children receive a special gift. This year, the excitement includes a new meet-and-greet with Mrs. Claus on the museum grounds, adorned with beautiful lights.

Your ticket also includes riding historic Chicago streetcars, taking a holiday light tour inside Barn 6 and touring landmark trains in Barns 3, 7 and 9, as well as visiting the indoor heated model railroad exhibit. The Illinois Railway Museum also offers free parking for all attendees, making your visit hassle-free.

How to Visit?

Ready to plan your outing to Union, Illinois? Here is the information you need to know:

• The Illinois Railway Museum is located at 7000 Olson Road in Union, Illinois.
• The event runs on select dates. The 2025 dates are Saturdays and Sundays: December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 and Monday, December 22.
• Trip times are 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
• Tickets cost $25 per ticket.

Everyone over the age of two requires a ticket. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. You can buy tickets directly through the Illinois Railway Museum’s website. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as this popular event sells out quickly!

The Trails of Dawson Creek

After experiencing the holiday wonder at the Illinois Railway Museum, why not take a short drive to explore a neighborhood where your own family traditions can thrive? The Happy Holiday Railway is located very near our beautiful community, The Trails of Dawson Creek in Poplar Grove, Illinois.

Gerstad Builders offers a variety of stunning single-family homes designed for modern living in this welcoming Poplar Grove neighborhood. Priced from $360,990, homes for sale in this community feature two to five bedrooms, two to three full bathrooms and two- or three-car garages.

The best way to envision your new life is to see it in person! Visit our new model homes at 202 Cress Creek Trail in Poplar Grove to walk through the Truman and Genesis floor plans. Our models are staffed and open for tours, giving you a chance to walk through a Gerstad-built house and experience the quality and design firsthand.

Contact our team today to take the first steps toward owning a new construction home in any of our wonderful Illinois or Wisconsin communities. Whether you are interested in Poplar Grove or another one of our locations, we are ready to help you find the perfect fit.

For immediate assistance or to schedule an in-person tour, call us at 815-385-4495 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you unwrap the gift of a new Gerstad house!