Holiday Toy Express Train and Toy Drive Draw Hundreds of Families to North Beach

Almost 1,000 people arrived bundled up with families in tow to watch Metrolink’s annual Holiday Toy Express arrive Saturday evening at 1850 Avenida Estacion in North Beach, one of 42 stops for the tricked-out train.

Orange County Fire Authority firefighters also participated in Firefighters Spark of Love Toy Drive and arrived at North Beach in a fire engine to pick up unwrapped donated gifts for the toy drive.

The evening also featured donated bicycles from Urban Bicycle Outfitters, Bull Tacos, carolers and sweet treats where proceeds went toward phase two of Courtney’s Sandcastle.

“There are some really generous individuals and businesses,” said Urban Bicycle Owner Pete van Nuys. “It’s really great to see how many generous people live in San Clemente.”

The fully decorated train was lined with 50,000 lights, tinsel and featured a holiday dance number that included Santa, his elves, Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman.

Although scheduled to arrive at 7:45 p.m., the train made a fashionably late entrance and entertained local families in the chilly night air.

After the performance, Santa and his friends hoped off the train to meet and greet local children.