The lights, music, and magic of the season will roll into town later this month as the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train makes its return stop in Texarkana. The decorated train will arrive at the West 4th Street railroad crossing at 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, bringing a free, family-friendly show headlined by Smash Mouth.
Now in its 26th year, the CPKC Holiday Train is a rolling concert stage and a moving symbol of generosity. Since 1999, the program has raised more than $26 million and millions of pounds of food for community food banks across North America. Each stop on the tour features a live performance, a dazzling display of holiday lights, and a chance for the community to come together in the spirit of giving.
This year’s tour kicks off November 19 and will visit nearly 200 communities across six Canadian provinces and 13 U.S. states, including new stops in Texas. The Texarkana visit marks a highlight for the region, drawing families from both sides of the state line to experience the spectacle up close.
Local Stop Details
-
Date: Sunday, November 30, 2025
-
Time: Train arrives at approximately 4:45 p.m.
-
Location: W. 4th Street railroad crossing, downtown Texarkana
-
Performance: Smash Mouth (live on the CPKC stage car)
-
Admission: Free – open to the public
-
What to bring: Non-perishable food items or monetary donations for local food banks
As always, the event is free to attend, with attendees encouraged to bring donations supporting local hunger-relief organizations. The CPKC Holiday Train’s mission is to help stock community food banks during the holidays, when needs are often greatest.
“Every year, our railroaders take great pride in bringing the Holiday Train across our network,” said CPKC President and CEO Keith Creel in a recent press release. “We’re thrilled to send this beautiful train filled with lights and music to spread the joy of the season and support the giving spirit of the holidays.”
A Community Tradition
Texarkana’s stop on the CPKC Holiday Train has become one of the area’s most anticipated holiday traditions. Families often arrive early to secure a good viewing spot near the crossing, with many describing it as “a Hallmark movie moment come to life.”
The show typically lasts about 30 minutes and includes musical performances, a brief presentation about local food-bank partnerships, and opportunities for photos of the train’s spectacular LED light display.
Event organizers remind visitors to stay behind designated safety barriers and avoid crossing the tracks during the event. Parking will be available near downtown, and early arrival is recommended due to expected crowds.
For more details about the CPKC Holiday Train’s full 2025 schedule, visit the official site at CPKCrail.com
