Santa Train alternative events announced

Organizers of the annual Santa Train run announced in August that while there will be an event, there will be no train trip this year because of COVID-19 precautions.

Friday, they announced additional details of the event.

Holiday gifts will be distributed at four Food City locations along the regular Santa Train route on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 8-10 a.m. at each location.

Along with Shelbiana, Ky., locations will include Food City stores in Clintwood, St. Paul and Weber City, according to a press release.

“Local community members will be able to pick up children’s gifts from cars to minimize physical contact,” it states. “Santa’s elves at each site will wear masks while handing out gifts, and attendees are encouraged but not required to wear a mask while in their vehicle at the pickup locations. Other aspects of the event, including contests and special guest appearances, will be conducted online via social media.”

Event sponsors are CSX, Food City, Appalachian Power, Soles4Souls and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce.