The event, organised by Young Rail Professionals, was designed for children from various disability, SEN and care backgrounds.
The train, which departed from Alresford, featured an accessible area within a standard class carriage, as well as spacious seating.
To make the experience even more special, Santa Claus made an appearance, handing out presents to all the children on board.
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Santa Claus made an appearance, handing out presents (Image: Adam Sergent) Before the train set off, Santa walked down the platform, much to the delight of the children who eagerly watched from the windows.
The train departed Alresford at sunset, starting the lights and music experience as it travelled into the night, passing Ropley and Medstead and Four Marks.
The passengers were treated to the sight of two illuminated trains passing each other.
While the train was on its magical journey, Santa and his elves walked down the carriages, handing out presents that included teddies, chocolates, toys, and even Lego, all donated by the rail industry.
The train then arrived at Alton, where the children were able to see the steam locomotive up close with Santa.
As part of the experience, there was also an interactive disco, with many of the children spending most of the journey dancing at their seats.
On the way back to Alresford, the passengers were also treated to a snowflake show.
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Santa and his elves spoke to people on the train (Image: Adam Sergent)
Event organiser Adam Sergent said: “We did a Santa train last year in Leicestershire and it was such a success, that we decided to do an illuminated train again this year with even more passengers.
“Some of our passengers haven’t even used a train before.
“The use of Christmas lights, music and presents was a great way to give them confidence on how fun travelling by train can really be.”
The feedback from the carers, parents, and the children has been positive.
Some of the families normally wouldn’t use the train, or even be able to afford the experience of being on a Christmas train.
For one 10-year-old, he said afterwards that this was the best experience of his life.
The event was funded by Young Rail Professionals, with support from a variety of rail industry sponsors.
Young Rail Professionals is an organisation that supports newcomers to the rail industry, as well as inspiring youngsters to take up STEM-related subjects.