Western Elite’s Christmas Express delivers holiday magic

Each year, Western Elite Landfill transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland. 

The property hosts invited guests for the Western Elite and Williams Family Christmas Express. The annual event is designed to bring families and friends together to celebrate the season while enjoying lights, displays and activities for all ages.

The 2024 Christmas Express was held Dec. 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14. Lights from the train and displays had been seen by travelers along U.S. Highway 93 in Lincoln County for quite some time.

Upon arrival, visitors were greeted by RyanHenge, a Stonehenge-like replica illuminated with synchronized lights and music. Guests gathered in the rotunda to dance and enjoy the vibrant display. After checking in, many headed to the hot cocoa station for a warm drink. Next came a hearty meal featuring chili, hot dogs and cornbread, all enjoyed around crackling firepits.

Groups then walked down a winding road of Christmas and nativity displays. Along the way, they paused for photos and received golden train tickets. At the end of the path, characters resembling the train conductor and hobo from “The Polar Express” greeted visitors from the outside of trains towed by Western Elite semi-trucks.

Boarding the Christmas Express train, passengers settled in for a magical ride as the train wound through the property while timeless Christmas characters and unique holiday displays came to life. 

One memorable stop featured a comedic duo navigating a maze of “Home Alone”-style obstacles. The crowd erupted with laughter as the mischievous pair bumbled through zip lines and traps.

Throughout the ride, the train conductor punched golden tickets with intricate designs. Near the end of the journey, Santa and Mrs. Claus made a grand entrance. The pair spread smiles as they handed out gifts and posed for photos with rows of passengers. After disembarking, the fun continued with open-sided sleigh rides and mini choo-choo rides.

The Christmas Express is a limited reservation event offered annually at no cost. During the event, Western Elite hosts an annual toy drive to support children in need. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys, which are collected upon arrival. These donations benefit organizations such as the Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. For more information on how to participate in future toy drives, visit westernelite.com/toy-drive.