POLAR EXPRESS - December 10th & 11th

The Polar Express event will take place on December 10 and 11, 2011.

This page will be updated with additional details as the event approaches.

The Hartford, Vermont Polar Express is sponsored by the White River Rotary Club

Polar Express 2011 FAQ’s

How do I buy tickets?

The best way is to purchase them online at www.hartfordvtpolarexpress.com  

Other ways:

ü     Email your contact information to Hartfordvtpolarexpress@gmail.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

ü  Go to the WRJ Welcome Center, 100 Railroad Row, Mon-Fri (10AM-4PM) checks preferred.

 NOTE: The ticket site will not allow you to register for a ride time that is sold out. No need to check availability-select the date and time as shown in the drop down list.

Are my tickets refundable?

Ticket purchases are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled by the White River Rotary Club and/or Green Mountain Railroad.

May I request that several parties be in the same car?

Yes and as long as there is room, we will try to accommodate that request when car assignments are made.  We will be assigning cars prior to boarding. Please enter the name(s) that the other reservation was placed under in the space provided on the “purchase tickets” page.

Where does the train go?

The train goes to the North Pole where the “The Polar Express” book is read. Santa boards the train there and each child receives a gift (the bell)and a yummy sugar cookie. Photos with Santa will be available after the ride at Santa’s photo shop (additional charges apply).

How long is the event?

Please allow about 2 hours for the whole experience:                  

30 minutes boarding and debarking; 45 on the train & back; stopping to pick up Santa and hear the Polar Express story; parking, getting tickets, browsing; having a picture taken with Santa if you choose; enjoying the holiday spirit without having to rush. (There are not bathrooms on the train, so you may want to use the ones at the station before boarding.)

What should I wear?

 We would like everyone to wear their PJ’s.  However, check the weather forecast and be sure you are dressed warmly and wear boots. The trains do have heat-we suggest you dress in layers.

 What’s the best age for attending?

We think the optimal ages are 3-12; however, we encourage families to participate and any age should enjoy!

Should I bring a stroller?

Strollers are not allowed on the train, however, you can leave strollers in the train station and pick them up on your return.  “Snugglies” are our preferred carriers for small ones.

My child has food allergies.  What can we do about the cookie and cocoa?

For children with special dietary needs, we ask families to bring their own beverage and a cookie for the train ride. 

Do I need to purchase a ticket for my infant child?

Babes in laps are free and do not require a ticket purchase. Children who occupy their own seat will require a ticket. If you would prefer to bring infants in a car seat carrier, please purchase a ticket as it will take up a seat on the train.

May I bring my pet?

No, thank you.

Will the hot chocolate be HOT?

We will make sure it is not TOO hot – cups will have covers. 

Can children travel without an adult?

Any child under 12 should not travel without an adult or older person such as an older sister/brother.

Can I pick up my ticket ahead of time?

Prior to the event, tickets may be picked up at the White River Junction RR Station (Welcome Center),100 Railroad Row, from December 5th to December 9th, 10 – 4, Monday-Friday.  You may also pick up your tickets 30 minutes prior to your reservation time on the day of your ride.

The Polar Express is brought to you by the White River Rotary Club

39 South Main St.

PO Box 4003

White River, Jct. VT 05001

Contact Info: Hartfordvtpolarexpress@gmail.com

802-281-5050 

GPS info

Polar Express

100 Railroad Row

White River Jct., VT 05001

Event Parking

2 paved parking lots on site

extra parking a short walk away

overflow parking available if needed

handicap parking and drop off available

We would like to recognize and thank the following sponsors for their support.