Joplin residents can anticipate a visit from the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train on Saturday, November 28, 2026. This stop is part of the railroad's annual program, which aims to support communities by addressing food insecurity across its extensive network. The overall Holiday Train schedule is set to commence on November 19, 2026, with the Joplin event being one of its key regional appearances.
On the same day as the Joplin stop, the CPKC Holiday Train will also make an appearance in Pittsburg, Kansas. Both locations are slated to feature live performances by musical artists Magic! and Maris. These events are conceived as dual-purpose gatherings, offering entertainment for attendees while simultaneously fostering charitable contributions for local food banks. This initiative highlights a commitment by CPKC to engage with the communities it serves beyond standard rail operations.
Keith Creel, President and CEO of CPKC, spoke to the motivations behind the Holiday Train's journey. Creel stated that CPKC railroaders feel a significant sense of responsibility and satisfaction in deploying the Holiday Train through numerous communities. The primary goal is to provide crucial support for individuals and families facing food insecurity. He emphasized the spirit of generosity inherent in the program.
Creel further elaborated on the community's role in the event's success. He noted that the enthusiasm and contributions from thousands of families and fans who attend the Holiday Train stops are vital. Whether attendees are new to the tradition or part of a long-standing practice, their support for local food banks helps fulfill the mission. This collective effort, Creel explained, allows CPKC to "spread the joy of the season and support the giving spirit of the holidays."
The November 28, 2026, stops in Joplin, Missouri, and Pittsburg, Kansas, are integral to the broader 2026 CPKC Holiday Train itinerary. The initiative seeks to deliver a memorable, festive experience for residents of both cities. At the same time, it mobilizes support for vital local charitable organizations. The event underscores how a major freight railroad connects with the human needs of the towns and cities along its routes. Details regarding precise timings or exact locations within Joplin for the train's arrival were not part of the initial public announcement from Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad, but the date for the Joplin stop remains firm.
