Port Alberni Vancouver Island British Columbia - Santa Claus gets around this time of year.
 
Usually it's by sleigh and includes nine tiny reindeer but this Saturday (8 Dec 2007) in Port Alberni he'll be taking the steam train, instead.
 
Santa will be riding the rails for six trips between the Port Alberni Train Station and the trestle at Kitsuksis Creek.
 
He'll visit with children on the train during each half-hour trip, says McLean Mill manager, and Santa Train spokesman Neil Malbon.
 
The Folk Song Circle will entertain people waiting at the train station, and Balloony the Clown will be on hand to make balloon animals.
 
Light refreshments will also be served.
 
The Santa Train is a tradition that just kicked up again last year, after taking a few years' break, Malbon said.
 
When the Industrial Heritage Society (IHS) started up the Millwarts' Express in October, volunteers decided to concentrate on that run and so they cancelled the Santa Train in the 1990s.
 
However, it was so popular, and so many people missed it, that the IHS decided to run it again, Malbon said.
 
"It's a good excuse to start your Christmas season, celebrating with your family and friends," he said.
 
The Santa Train runs at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:30, and 15:30.
 
Admission is $3 per rider (children under three ride for free on an adult's lap).
 
Tickets are available at Echo Centre and also at the train station on Saturday.
 
Malbon reminds riders to dress warmly, as the train is open to the elements, and the weather is supposed to be cool.
 
McLean Mill will also have some of its souvenirs for sale at the train station.
 
Susan Quinn.