It’s that time of year again when the wrapping paper comes out, menorahs move to the window and daredevils clamber up ladders to hang twinkling lights. For many American homes, it’s also time for a toy train to start circling the Christmas tree. Where did this popular tradition come from? Trains, themselves, of course!

Early 20th-Century Technological Marvels

In the early 1900s, trains were considered cutting-edge technology and symbols of progress. When electric toy trains were developed, they captured the imagination of both children and adults. These miniature locomotives, often made of tin, became wildly popular, and their association with the real-life marvel of trains made them appealing additions to Christmas festivities.

Lionel Changes the Game

The Lionel Corporation, a prominent American toy train manufacturer, played a significant role in popularizing the Christmas train tradition by marketing its electric toy trains as ideal gifts. The company showcased elaborate train sets in its promotional materials, often showing them encircling Christmas trees.

Symbolizing Prosperity

During the early 20th century, the expansion of the railroad system was a symbol of economic growth and prosperity. The image of a train endlessly going around a Christmas tree wasn’t just a vision of holiday cheer, it started to symbolize progress and economic strength.

Showing Up in Popular Media

Over the years, popular media — including ads, movies and TV shows — have further re-inforced the association between toy trains and Christmas.  We have to admit one of our favorite scenes is when Kevin in Home Alone attaches a cut out of Michael Jordan to a train to scare away the bad guys (shown above). Classic.  

Fueling Nostalgia

As families began incorporating toy trains into their Christmas celebrations, the tradition took on a nostalgic and sentimental quality. The act of setting up the train, arranging tracks, and watching it circle the tree became a cherished family tradition that evoked warm memories and a sense of togetherness.

Model Train Enthusiasts Play Year-round

The enduring appeal of model trains as a hobby contributed to the tradition’s longevity. Many enthusiasts (such as the father of our web editor shown above) collect and display model trains year-round, making the holiday season an opportune time to showcase these collections as part of the festive decorations.