Santa Special
A Santa Special is a special Christmas rail service, common on heritage steam railways, where children are given the opportunity to meet "Santa Claus".
The revenues derived from Santa Specials make an important contribution to the finances of the railways as they attract large numbers of families during the off-peak winter period.
Image:Santa Special NVR Julian Dowse.jpg|thumb|Swedish 'B' Class No.101 hauling a Santa special on the Nene [Valley Railway]
Common features of Santa Special services are
- Meeting "Santa Claus"
- Each child receiving a gift from "Santa Claus"
- Refreshments provided for adults - for example, a Mince Pie and a Seasonal Drink
- Entertainment provided for adults and children - for example, Juggling and Balloon Sculpting