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The Polar Express comes to life at V&T Railroad

Autumn Whitney
awhitney@tahoedailytribune.com
The Polar Express leaves the station on Thursdays and weekends from Nov. 17 through Dec. 23.
Courtesy / CL Marshall Images |

All aboard! The Polar Express is leaving the station. On Thursdays and weekends up until Dec. 23, experience the classic story firsthand as the V&T Railroad brings the book to life with a trip to the North Pole.

With hot chocolate, treats and a special reading of “The Polar Express” set to the motion picture soundtrack, the one-hour train ride is a perfect way for all ages to begin the winter season.

Modeled after Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 story of a boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, the real-life Polar Express is a can’t-miss activity for any fan of the book.



“It’s a real-life train going to the North Pole. You see Santa and all the elves, they read the story and give you treats. It’s a really immersive holiday experience for kids and families — it’s unlike anything on the South Shore,” Weidinger PR’s Shannon Earley said.

Guests journey to the North Pole and get a glimpse of Santa Claus and his elves at work before the man himself boards the train and greets passengers, giving each child a silver sleigh bell — just like in the story. Be sure to wear your pajamas to get the full experience and be part of the magic.



“Reaching the North Pole, Santa getting on the train and working his way through — I suspect that’s the high point,” Polar Express conductor David Bell said.

“Chatting with the kids and their parents briefly, that’s the fun. Everyone’s there to have a good time. I can’t remember having a bad situation the whole time I’ve been on there. They are so excited.

“I have to admit, watching the kids get off the train and seeing Santa, seeing the smiles — you can’t top that,” Bell added.

The 6-mile journey is approximately one hour. Grab your tickets soon — this one-of-a-kind holiday experience is expected to sell out. They are available for purchase at http://www.vtrailway.com or by calling 877-724-5007.

Coach tickets are priced at $46 for adults and $36 for children. VIP spots are available to adults for $82 and children for $72.

Trains leave the Carson City Eastgate Depot at 5, 6:30 and 8 p.m.

Find additional information at http://www.polarexpressride.com.


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