Polar Express on Cape Cod: Top questions about the popular Christmas train ride answered

Like many children, I was envious of the boys and girls who got to ride on the Polar Express after watching the famous 2004 Christmas flick. As the children embarked on their journey through the snow-covered night, I longed to be a passenger on the old steam train heading towards the North Pole.

From the festivities to the food, everything about the movie was magical. In the spirit of bringing some holiday magic to the Cape — and making some childhood dreams come true — Cape Codders can take a trip on the Polar Express as the Cape Cod Central Railroad’s Polar Express Train Ride departs from Buzzards Bay Station from now until Dec. 23.

"It's lots of fun and entertainment for kids and families," Kaylene Jablecki, vice president of Passenger Operations at the Cape Cod Central Railroad said. "We encourage people each year to make it a family tradition and we have a lot of families who have been returning year after year."

What do you do on the Polar Express train ride?

The festivities on the Polar Express Train Ride are part of an official Warner Brothers production. On the journey to the North Pole, passengers will enjoy all the magic the movie presents plus a few added bonuses.

The movie’s soundtrack will play throughout the ride as the conductor punches golden tickets and dancing waiters and chefs perform. The famous children's book will be read over the speakers and passengers are encouraged to bring a copy of the book to read along.

"Regardless of which car you're in, (the) onboard entertainment that the people are all experiencing with the dancing chefs and waiters (are) in each car," Jablecki said.

Once at the North Pole, Santa and his elves will climb aboard to meet passengers, take photos and give out special gifts.

"Everyone who believes is given the first gift of Christmas which is a silver sleigh bell just like in the movie," Jablecki said.

Elves remain aboard the train as passengers head back to Buzzards Bay and they partake in Christmas carol singing alongside the chefs and waiters and play a few games with the kids.

How long is the Polar Express train ride?

Rides are an hour to an hour and a half long from Buzzards Bay to the North Pole and back.

What age is Polar Express good for?

All ages, according to Jablecki. In her years of running the production, she's seen parents bring their babies aboard the Polar Express for their first Christmas, couples young and old enjoying a trip to the North Pole and families returning year after year to celebrate the season.

"If you're a fan of Christmas, you'll enjoy the train," she said.

When does the Polar Express run on Cape Cod?

Rides officially began on the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 24, and run until Dec. 23. Polar Express Train Rides will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, at 4:30 and 7 p.m. on Fridays, 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. On Dec. 17, an additional matinee ride will be offered at 11:30 a.m. and rides will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 19, and Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 4:30 and 7 p.m. in order to fit more trips in before Christmas.

"We don't run, for example, on Tuesdays normally (we have) a day off but otherwise (the closer we) get to Christmas, (we're running) more frequently," Jablecki said.

Can you eat on the Polar Express?

Hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbreads will be served on board throughout the trip as they are the “official onboard treat” for the ride. No other beverages or food will be available on board.

"We have to stick to the Warner Brothers script and in the movie, it is only hot chocolate and cookies so that is all that is served on this trip," Jablecki explained.

Do you wear pajamas on the Polar Express?

All passengers, regardless of age, are encouraged to wear their Christmas pajamas aboard the Polar Express.

How much does it cost to go on the Polar Express?

Tickets for the Polar Express range from $49 to $109, depending on the class, with children three and under riding for $5 with a paying adult.

There are three classes of service – standard class, first class and premium class.

Standard class is the most economical of the three, offering riders row seating for the cheapest prices. For matinee rides, children ages three to 12 ride for $49 and adults for $59. For regular rides, child tickets are $64 and adults are $74.

In first class, riders are treated to window seating in groups of four – either in a row or across from each other. Parties larger than four may have seats adjacent to or across the aisle from each other, dependent on size. In addition to window seating, first-class passengers also receive a limited edition Polar Express tumbler with their ticket purchase. For matinee rides, tickets are $64 per child, $74 per adult. For regular rides, tickets are $79 per child, $89 per adult.

Finally, in premium class, riders experience the most luxurious travel experience of the three options. Seated at tables for four with plush seating, premium-class riders enjoy the luxury of riding in an elevated car with panoramic windows. Plus, riders will receive a Polar Express ceramic mug with their ticket purchase. For matinee rides, tickets in premium class are $84 per child, $94 per adult. For regular rides, tickets are $99 per child, $109 per adult.

How do I buy tickets for the Polar Express?

Tickets for the Polar Express can be purchased online at www.capetrain.com/rides/the-polar-express-train-ride/. Several days are already sold out.

Where is the station located and how soon should I arrive?

Buzzards Bay Station is located at 70 Main St. in Buzzards Bay. Passengers should aim to arrive 45 minutes prior to departure in order to park and pick up their tickets. Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure and parking is free at the station. The train will not be held for any late passengers.

Frankie Rowley covers entertainment and things to do. Contact her at frowley@capecodonline.com.

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This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Cape Cod Polar Express: What to know about this Christmas train ride