The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach is set to launch the holiday season with its beloved Planes, Trains, and Santa celebration, taking place November 28, 29, and 30. Tickets are now on sale for this annual family favorite that combines aviation, model railroads, and festive holiday cheer. Each morning at 10:00 a.m., weather permitting, Santa Claus will make a grand entrance by vintage aircraft—his reindeer resting up for their big night. Families are invited to greet Santa along the flightline, take photos, explore the museum’s historic aircraft collection, and enjoy the hangar transformed into a winter wonderland filled with model trains.
To maintain the event’s intimate and family-friendly atmosphere, attendance will be limited to 1,300 guests per day. Advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged, as no tickets will be available at the door once a day is sold out. Throughout the weekend, guests can take part in a variety of festive activities, including making holiday cards for service members, crafting reindeer ornaments, decorating at the coloring stations, and creating custom buttons. The Museum Store will offer unique gifts for all ages, and in the spirit of giving, visitors are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to benefit the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters. Children and adults alike will be captivated by the detailed model train displays weaving through miniature villages, twinkling landscapes, and holiday scenes. These intricate trains, complete with tiny passengers and festive cargo, capture the wonder of the season and create a nostalgic, heartwarming experience for all ages.
Santa will arrive at the Museum each day at 10:00 a.m., weather permitting, to greet families and pose for photos. Children 13 and under receive free admission all weekend, while regular admission applies to guests 14 and older. Museum members enjoy free entry with advance registration, and all guests with active memberships or pre-purchased tickets receive priority access for sitting with Santa. Professional portraits with Santa will be available for $10 per print, taken and printed on-site by the Museum’s photographers. With its mix of vintage airplanes, model trains, and hands-on holiday fun, Planes, Trains, and Santa offers a magical start to the season and a cherished family tradition at the Military Aviation Museum. To purchase the tickets, click HERE.
