Hop on board the Polar Express holiday excursion

Catch the annual holiday treat, a ride aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ from Carson City to "the North Pole."

Even though all VIP tickets are sold out, there are a few regularly priced coach tickets available for the magical train ride that runs through December 23. There is even a special 25 percent off day on Sunday, November 27.

The train ride has completely sold out for five consecutive years.

Use the promo code “FLASH” for rides Nov. 27. With this special promotion coach tickets are $34.50 for adults and $27 for children.

The boarding area at the Carson City Depot, Eastgate Siding Road offers indoor heated areas where riders can take photos with Santa Claus and purchase souvenirs.

Families can relive the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ in the one-hour journey filled with music, songs and a cast of characters all the way to the North Pole. Once aboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along with the classic children’s book “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa Claus and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Elves in each train car lead families in Christmas carol favorites on the return to Carson City.

Arrival at the station 30 minutes prior to departure is recommended. The V&T’s engine and holiday decorated passenger cars leave the Carson City Eastgate Depot (seven miles east of downtown Carson City) and travel nearly two miles before stopping at Santa's North Pole retreat.

Riders can turn their North Pole visit into a weekend adventure in Carson City. The V&T Railroad’s lodging partners are offering discounted room rates to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ riders who book their stay to coincide with the day of their ride. Lodging packages are available from the Plaza Hotel and Event Center (www.carsoncityplaza.com) and the Wyndham Garden Carson City Max Casino (www.wyndhamhotels.com).

To purchase tickets, call 877-724-5007 or 775-291-0208 or visit www.vtrailway.com. Information is also available at www.polarexpressride.com.