Calgary – October 13, 2026 -- The 2026 CPKC Holiday Train departs Montreal on Nov. 19 for a 32-day run with live music shows in 182 communities across Canada and the United States, and attendees are asked to bring a cash donation or non-perishable food item for local food banks.
Ten communities get their first Holiday Train visit
The route reaches farther south than ever before. Ten communities in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri will host the train for the first time: Blue Springs (Missouri); Meridian and Jackson (Mississippi); Vicksburg, Monroe, Ruston, DeQuincy, Leesville and Zwolle (Louisiana); and Port Arthur (Texas).
In total, the 182 shows span six provinces and 13 U.S. states.
Twelve acts are on the lineup
Performers include American Authors, Magic!, Maris, Chase Rice, Madeline Edwards, Allen Stone, Jamie Fine, Shawnee Kish, Rafaëlle Roy, Tyler Shaw, Sam Roberts Band and Owen Riegling.
Nasri Atweh of Magic! said the band is grateful to be invited back and called the holidays his favorite time of year.
Donations stay in the town where they are given
CPKC says all contributions remain in the local community. Since 1999, the program has collected more than $28.3 million and over 5.6 million pounds of food for community food banks in Canada and the U.S. The program is now in its 28th year.
In Edmonton, the train stops Dec. 13. Marjorie Bencz, executive director of Edmonton's Food Bank, said every donation of food and funds helps the organization feed neighbours in need.
Stay 15 metres back from the tracks
CPKC asks spectators to stay 15 metres (50 feet) back from the tracks when taking photos or video. Standing on the track or the ballast rock is prohibited, and viewers should keep clear of the locomotive and rail cars.
Fans can follow the journey with #CPKCHolidayTrain and on CPKC's channels on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. CPKC warns of fake accounts impersonating the railway or the Holiday Train and advises relying on its verified channels.