The Polar Express is returning to Chicago for its first full post-pandemic season once again offering Chicagoans the chance to be whisked away on a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa.
Taking place from Sunday, December 3 through to New Year’s Day, Union Station’s Polar Express Train Ride invites passengers to experience the classic children’s story by Chris Van Allsburg firsthand on a real train set to the sounds of the motion picture’s iconic soundtrack.
“Once on board, your car hosts will work their way through the coach and punch your golden ticket before hot chocolate and delicious Walker’s Shortbread are served by dancing chefs”, reads the Polar Express website.
“Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. During the trip, characters on each car lead passengers in caroling and onboard entertainment just like in the film!”
Canceled in 2020, the cherished interactive experience ran for a shortened period in 2021 before it was canceled again in 2022.
This year Santa will even jump on board to greet passengers before distributing silver sleigh bells.
Seating is assigned during the checkout process for all passengers and there will be cheaper tickets for lower-demand departures, according to officials.
Once the Polar Express returns on December 3 it will run every day of the week for the whole month except for Mondays.
More information can be found at chicagothepolarexpressride.com.
[Featured image courtesy of Polar Express]