American-Rails

New Jersey Christmas Train Rides (2023): A Complete Guide
By: Adam Burns

(Woodstown):  This excursion launched in 2022 and is a division of SMS Rail Lines, a short line freight carrier which has served New Jersey since 1994.  From a historical standpoint, the operation utilizes about 16 miles of restored ex-Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Lines trackage between Swedesboro, Woodstown, and Mannington.  The railroad is currently offering 32-mile round trips with some trains.

As a new railroad their excursions are still limited.  However, for the holidays there are two events in which they are taking part:

“Woodstown By Candlelight (Friday December 2nd from 4 – 9 PM): Come on out to the quaint town of Woodstown, NJ to meet our friendly team and check out the craftsmanship on our red Reading Caboose! Take a stroll through the beautiful downtown and tour historic homes, snack at the food trucks, listen to live music, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and visit with Santa! It’s going to be a great night and a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season!”

“Home for the Holidays, Salem, Yuletide Tour of Homes – A Historic Yuletide Tour of Salem (Saturday December 3 from 1 -6 PM): Join us for a fun and festive event based out of historic Salem, New Jersey. Meet our friendly team and take a close-up look at our restored red Reading Caboose! You can enjoy shopping in the unique shops, visit with Santa, and tour through historic homes and venues!”