Once again, people of all ages are eagerly awaiting the captivating magic that the holiday season brings.

Come and join the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (BVTC) as they kick off the 2021 season with their production of the popular Blackstone Valley Polar Express Train Ride presented by Navigant Credit Union.

This three-hour experience is based on the popular children’s book “The Polar Express” by noted Rhode Island author Chris Van Allsburg, which was also made into an animated family movie featuring Tom Hanks.

Put on your pajamas for this trip, which includes a 90-minute excursion on a real-life train filled with a reading of the classic children’s story, sing-a-longs, hot chocolate, a delicious Polar Express cookie, games, and a special visit from Santa to deliver the first gift of Christmas to every child! During the trip passengers will view the North Pole that includes a giant 35-foot Christmas tree, gorgeous decorations, and “elves” to welcome the train’s arrival, performed by children from The Dance Step. After returning from the trip, families can stay for a photo with Santa in the historic Blackstone Valley Train Depot.

Blackstone Valley Tourism Council President Bob Billington states, “we’re excited to be back in Woonsocket. We love working there and being a part of Rhode Island’s holiday season festivities.”

A notable change to previous Blackstone Valley Polar Express Train Rides is that all pre-boarding activities will take place outside of the depot. Under a large beautifully-lit tent passengers will have the opportunity to take photos in front of custom-made Polar Express backdrops with some of the characters from the show, as well as peruse the officially-licensed Polar Express Gift Shop, and enjoy children’s activities and writing letters to Santa.

A wonderful addition to this year’s event is a brand-new stage show orchestrated by renowned performer Emily Luther (“The Voice”); John Guevremont, creative director at Mount Saint Charles; and students from this acclaimed academy that will take guests through the introduction of the beloved Polar Express story! This show will begin 30 minutes before each trip and will lead passengers right into the calling of “All Aboard” with our Conductor and boarding the train.

BVTC is seeking volunteers for various positions at the Blackstone Valley Polar Express. Those interested in being a part of this event should contact Joan Loos at joan@tourblackstone.com or call (401) 724-2200.

For more information and tickets, visit www.blackstonevalleypolarexpress.com or call the ticketing office at (401) 495-1213