For children at Christmas, there are few tales as beloved as The Polar Express. This holiday season, there are lots of ways to bring the snowy story to life right here in Hotlanta. From story times to train rides, read on to get your Polar Express adventure on track.
Hear the Story:
On December 6th, Atlanta area Barnes & Noble stores are hosting a special evening story time. Children are invited to wear their pajamas to hear the story and participate in activities at this free event.
Decatur’s Little Shop of Stories will host their annual Polar Express Party December 14th. Kids will hear the story, drink hot chocolate and do a craft before finishing up with a visit from Santa himself. Reservations open December 1, the cost is $5.
Think Outside the Train:
Fans of the movie will want to check out Stone Mountain’s 4-D Polar Express Experience. This 20-minute show can be seen through the end of December.
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw will keep its doors open late on December 6 for the annual Polar Express Adventure. From 6-10 PM, attendees can meet a train conductor and a hobo, enjoy hot chocolate, make a holiday craft and watch elves at work in their workshop. There will be opportunity to write a letter to Santa and meet the big man himself, and a holiday model train layout. Tickets are $5 for 12 and up, $3 for kids 4-12 and free for 3 and under.
And for a truly immersive experience, don’t miss The Southeastern Railway Museum’s Polar Express Experience. Visitors will board a train to watch the movie-and then the movie comes to life. A conductor will come around to check for tickets, porters will offer pillows and blankets to the pajama clad children, and hot chocolate will be served. Santa Claus will also enter the train at the end of the movie.
Throw a Polar Express Party:
Gather family and friends together for a holiday party with a train twist. Invite guests to come in their pajamas—wackiest PJ’s get a prize. Set up a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, candy canes and dippable treats. Decorate train cookies while you watch the movie or listen to an audio version of the book, and give out jingle bells as parting gifts.
Does your family have a Polar Express tradition? Share with us below.
—Allyson Brandt
Photos courtesy of Stone Mountain via Facebook and the Southeastern Railway Museum via Facebook
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