CLIFTON FORGE, VA (LOOTPRESS) – The Chesapeake & Ohio Historical Society is spreading holiday cheer with its annual “Christmas at the Depot” event, scheduled for December 7 from 12 PM to 4 PM at the C&O Railway Heritage Center in Clifton Forge.
This festive celebration aims to benefit the Alleghany Highlands Christmas Mother Program, a long-standing initiative supporting local families in need during the holiday season.
The event promises a family-friendly afternoon filled with holiday activities and a celebration of the region’s railroading heritage.
Visitors can explore vintage rail cars and historic railroad structures while enjoying the C&O Historical Society’s Freight House Museum, which features artifacts and displays detailing the history of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway.
A special visit from Santa Claus is planned, offering families the chance to snap photos with the jolly guest before his busy Christmas Eve travels.
Other highlights include complimentary hot cocoa, cookies, and popcorn, along with a special “Grinch” punch in anticipation of a visit from the Grinch himself.
The mischievous holiday character will take over the “Little C&O” ride-on train, a popular attraction that invites guests to join him for a ride through the museum.
A key moment of the day will be the introduction of this year’s Christmas Mother, Ms. Ingrid W. Barber, the 76th honoree of the program, which has supported the Alleghany Highlands for more than 70 years.
The C&O Historical Society hopes to raise $1,000 to contribute to this year’s initiative, which helps bring holiday joy to families in need.
“The Christmas Mother works tirelessly to bring the spirit of Christmas to the community during each holiday season, and the C&O Historical Society appreciates the opportunity to contribute to this effort,” said Kerry Worsham, Treasurer of the C&O Historical Society. “We are pleased to help raise funds for the fourth year in a row at our annual Christmas Mother fundraising event at our Heritage Center.”
Admission to the event is $5 per person, with children three and under admitted free. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to the Christmas Mother Program.
In addition to “Christmas at the Depot,” the Historical Society will host a special book sale in collaboration with the Norfolk & Western Historical Society from Roanoke.
Featuring new-old-stock books on railroads across the country, the sale is an opportunity to find unique gifts for train enthusiasts and history buffs.
The C&O Railway Heritage Center is located at 705 Main Street in Clifton Forge and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
