Hot chocolate? They've got it and more at NC transportation museum's Polar Express
Five years ago, the NC Transportation Museum in Spencer started offering The Polar Express train ride, a festive celebration of the season that's inspired by the classic picture book and animated movie.
Since 2014, the event has grown by leaps and bounds each year. Last year, more than 55,000 visitors rode The Polar Express, according to the museum. The Polar Express runs through Dec. 22. Some seatings are sold out. Others have availability. Check the transportation museum's website for details.
But, despite it's popularity, museum staffers still run into people who aren't quite sure what the experience is really all about. How exactly do they recreate the movie at a museum?
Here's what you need to know ...
It's immersive
The event combines a real train ride with live performers who bring the story to life as you ride on the train on the museum's grounds. Interactive performers join you on the train. There is a reading of The Polar Express book. And there's a live performance at the North Pole featuring Santa himself, according to the museum. The train ride ends as Santa presents each child with a silver sleigh bell, which is, of course, heard only by those who believe.
Hot chocolate? They've got it
Just like in the movie, actors performing in the museum's Polar Express move through the train cars, serving up hot chocolate and cookies as they dance through the aisles.
“It isn’t just providing the visitor a train ride," N.C. Transportation Museum Executive Director Kelly Alexander said. “It’s about making our visitors feel like they are experiencing the story and taking this journey.”
Pajamas welcome
Guests are encouraged to wear their pajamas as if the actual Polar Express had pulled up outside their door on Christmas Eve. (Just pair those jammies with some actual shoes.)
It takes a team
With help from Lee St. Theatre and other local groups and businesses, it takes some 130 people to put the production together each night, including cast members, train crews, museum staff and Santa Claus.
Off the train
Before or after the ride, families can get photos with Santa, take part in different activities and roast s'mores over fire pits. S'mores packets are $2 each.
Stay the night
Spencer is a two-hour drive from Raleigh, which could make for a late-night return to the Triangle. The museum has partnered with the Rowan Convention and Visitor Bureau to offer free tickets to those booking lodging in Rowan County on event nights. More information is on the CVB's website.
