They say “It’s Christmas in July.” This may just be true as many parents and children already have visions of sugar plums dancing through their heads. Ticket sales for The Grand Canyon Railway’s popular Polar Express™ are on sale, and selling they are, at a record pace.
Back by popular demand, the Grand Canyon Railway Polar Express experience will be offered from November 6 through January 3, with special trains running from Williams, AZ to the North Pole nightly at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Additional matinee journeys will also be available on select dates.
The Polar Express is a holiday-themed train adventure for guests of all ages, following the storyline of the children’s book written by Chris Van Allsburg. A family favorite, guests will embark upon a magical, train adventure to the North Pole – featuring holiday songs, lively elves, cookies and hot cocoa, a special reading of “The Polar Express”, and of course a visit by Santa himself.
The evening starts with a special light show at the historic Williams Depot, before passengers board the train for their journey to Santa’s Village, made faster by traveling through the Magic Tunnel. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa Claus and his top helper, Elf Bernard, welcome passengers to the village, illuminated with festive storefronts and bright lights.
Before the train sets off on its return journey, Santa boards the Polar Express and joins his visitors for their return trip to Williams – making his way through the passenger cars and greeting every child with a special gift, a jingle bell signifying their belief in Santa Claus.
Prices for evening departures Sunday through Thursday are $29 for kids ages two to 15 and $39 for adults. For tickets on Saturday and Sunday prices are $35 for children and $45 for adults. Matinee tickets are also offered on select dates at 3:30 p.m. ($24 for children, $34 for adults Sunday through Thursday and $30 for children, $40 for adults Saturday and Sunday). The Christmas Eve Limited on December 24 is priced at $69 for adults and $55 for children and includes special mementos. Polar Express reservations may be made by visiting www.thetrain.com/polarexpress or calling 1-888-848-3511.
The Grand Canyon Railway also offers a Polar Express Package, which features overnight accommodations as well as Polar Express Train tickets for guests. Included in this package is the Polar Express train excursion, a one-night stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, and breakfast and dinner at the Grand Depot Café. The package price for two adults and two children is at $394 and does not include taxes. Polar Express passengers also receive a 50 percent discount on a regular every-day future train trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon valid 60-days from their Polar Express experience and train ride.
