SANTA will swap his sleigh for a steam train as he visits Ongar to turn on the Christmas lights.
The Epping-Ongar Heritage steam railway, which opened in May, will ferry passengers, including Father Christmas, to the traditional event on December 7.
The lights will be switched on at 7pm but crowds are invited to watch Santa make his way from Ongar Station to the High Street at 6.15pm.
There will be stalls and performances from school choirs from 5pm and many of the shops in the High Street will be staying open late.
Steam trains will depart North Weald Station at 5.05pm and 6pm with return journeys at 7.30pm and 8.20pm.
Special discounted return fares of £3 per person will be available on the evening.
A fashion show at Vojan restaurant, Epping Road, Ongar, on November 30, will be raising money towards the cost of the Christmas lights.
Tickets, priced £30 per head are available by ringing 01277 362293.
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