KINGSPORT, Tenn. — The CSX Santa Train rolled through central Appalachia on Saturday and hundreds turned out for some holiday excitement.

News 5's Natalea Hillen rode along and shares how much joy and tradition this train continues to bring.

The yearly CSX Santa Train turns its 110-mile route into a rolling holiday tradition. Santa tossed toys and families said this is the moment they look forward to all year long.

Hundreds of families and children gathered across Appalachia for the 83rd CSX Santa Train.

"You see all the age groups to the little tiny babies, to great grandparents and it's just continued as family event," said Santa Claus.

CSX leaders told me it takes crews a year to plan and prepare to get this train ready. A tradition that’s been rolling since 1943.

"As soon as we'

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