On December 7th, 2025, the Camp Rising Sun / CTrail Candy Cane Express operated a festive non-stop round trip on the Hartford Line from New Haven to Hartford and back, providing a memorable holiday experience for young cancer patients and their families. The seven-car special, bracketed by a GE P40BH on each end, carried over 300 passengers aboard a train decorated throughout with holiday-themed décor. In addition to music, activities, and seasonal cheer onboard, the train made a brief stop in Wallingford to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus before continuing north, making for an unforgettable holiday journey on the Hartford Line.
Group photo with Santa’s helpers and train crew at the conclusion of the trip at New Haven Union Station, marking the end of a memorable holiday journey.