🌟 When It’s Happening
The Holiday Train tour officially runs from November 19 through December 21, 2025, making an incredible 196 stops across Canada and the U.S. It’s basically a traveling concert on wheels — a train covered in lights that rolls into town, opens up a stage, and puts on a free half-hour show.
The only thing CPKC asks is that if you can, bring a non-perishable food item or a few bucks to support your local food bank. That’s the real heart of this whole thing — spreading some cheer and helping neighbors who could use a hand during the holidays.
🎶 Who’s Performing
This year’s lineup is honestly pretty great. Depending on the route, you’ll see artists like Tyler Shaw, Shawnee Kish, KT Tunstall, and American Authors.
But for Manitoba — it’s a total treat. Jade Eagleson and Teigen Gayse will be performing live on the train when it makes its way through the province. Think upbeat country energy, catchy tunes, and a whole lot of festive spirit.
🚆 Manitoba Stops to Mark on Your Calendar
Whitemouth – Wednesday, Dec 3, 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Whitemouth Hotel, Railway Avenue
Winnipeg – Wednesday, Dec 3, 9:15 PM – 9:45 PM
📍 Panet Road & Molson Street (near the tracks — you’ll hear it before you see it!)
Portage la Prairie – Friday, Dec 5, 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 309 1st Street NW
Neepawa – Friday, Dec 5, 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Railway Street between Mountain Ave & Currie Ave
Minnedosa – Friday, Dec 5, 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
📍 30 2nd Avenue NW
Shoal Lake – Friday, Dec 5, around 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 North Railway Avenue
Each stop lasts about half an hour — just enough time for a few songs, some dancing in the snow, and a donation drop-off before the train chugs off to the next town.
💡 Why People Love It
There’s something special about the Holiday Train that’s hard to explain until you’ve seen it. Maybe it’s the lights bouncing off the snow, or how everyone just seems happy to be there — strangers chatting like old friends while kids run around in snow pants and flashing Christmas hats.
And knowing that all this fun helps local food banks? That’s the cherry on top. Since it started in 1999, the train has raised millions of dollars and collected millions of pounds of food across Canada and the U.S. That’s a lot of full plates and happy holidays.
❄️ Tips for a Great Night
- Show up early — the train draws a crowd fast, and it’s way better when you can actually see the stage.
- Dress for real winter — we’re talking boots, layers, and the good gloves, not the thin ones.
- Bring something to donate — every can counts.
- Keep an eye on updates — weather delays happen sometimes.
❤️ Why It’s Worth Going
The Holiday Train isn’t just an event — it’s a vibe. It’s the sound of guitars echoing through the cold air, little kids dancing on tiptoes, and that feeling you get when you realize the world can still be a little magical sometimes.
Whether you’re watching it in Winnipeg, waving as it passes through Whitemouth, or making a road trip to Minnedosa, you’ll leave with frozen toes and a warm heart.
So grab your friends, your family, or even just yourself — and come out to see the lights roll by. The 2025 CPKC Holiday Train is rolling through Manitoba on December 3 and 5, and it’s one of those small-town-meets-big-magic experiences you don’t want to miss. 🚂✨
