10/31/2026
The City of Macomb is pleased to announce the return of the Santa Zephyr Express, now in its ninth year. This holiday tradition is presented in partnership with Amtrak and See Quincy IL .
On Friday, December 4, 2026, Santa will travel aboard the Illinois Zephyr from Quincy to Macomb, departing from the Quincy AMTRAK Station at 5:30 p.m. and arriving in Macomb at the Thomas C. Carper AMTRAK Station at approximately 6:17 p.m. During the journey, Santa and his helpers will provide complimentary refreshments and distribute a special gift to children on the train.
One-way tickets for the specially decorated train cars will be available for purchase through the City of Macomb Community Event Calendar (https://bit.ly/SantaZephyr2026 ) beginning Friday, November 6, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include a commemorative “golden ticket.” Availability is limited, and early purchase is strongly encouraged as this event typically sells out quickly.
Upon arrival at the Thomas C. Carper AMTRAK Station in Macomb, Santa will proceed to the City Hall Community Room, where he will meet with children from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
“The Santa Zephyr Express has become one of Macomb’s most beloved holiday traditions,” said Savannah Ballard, Marketing and Downtown Development Director. “We are proud to partner with AMTRAK and the Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to offer this memorable experience and to welcome visitors to Macomb as part of the annual Dickens on the Square celebration.”
