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Posted in Vermont Explore, Trips November 23, 2016 by Kristin Grimes

The Magical Polar Express Train Ride In Vermont Everyone Should Experience At Least Once

Nothing is quite as magical as true Christmas Spirit, and it comes alive in Burlington, Vermont on the Polar Express. This train ride brings pajama-clad guests on a train to the North Pole with a special appearance from Santa himself! This activity is a fundraiser for the Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation and it is the perfect time of year to support this wonderful organization. All aboard the Polar Express!

The Polar Express runs through rain, hail, sleet and snow in Burlington!

The adventure begins in the Wing Building lobby at the bottom of King Street just South of Union Station.

The friendly engineers welcome everyone into the south entrance of the Wing Building where they’ll await their train.

For added fun, passengers are encouraged to wear their pajamas.

The Polar express is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation (VCTF).

The VCTF promotes the well-being of children and families in Vermont by raising funds for community-based prevention programs.

Each child is asked to donate a new or gently used children’s book to Santa’s sack. The Fletcher Free Library will be distributing the picture books in time for the holidays through the Library's Books for Children Gift Campaign.

Smiling conductors greet passengers as they board the train for their ride to the 'North Pole' (Union Station).

During the ride, the chefs serve hot cocoa and cookies while conductors lead a Christmas carol sing along.

Upon reaching the 'North Pole,' children leave the train, passing elves as they enter the North Pole. It's pure magic.

The Polar Express story is read aloud, as artwork from the book follows the page turns on a big screen.

As the bell grows louder you realize it is coming from behind the crowd.

And who before your wandering eyes should appear? Santa!

Santa gives each child a bell from his sleigh.

"Though I've grown old, the bell still rings for me as it does for all who truly believe." —Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express.

If you like feeling like a kid again, you’ll love this neighborhood toy store in Vermont!

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Kristin Grimes

Kristin Grimes lives in Vermont, is a freelance writer and busy MOM (Manager of Madness) and WIFE (Washing, Ironing, Feeding, Etc.)