{Annual Polar Express weekend // All Aboard!!}

 And then it was time for the main event—the absolute star of the weekend: riding the Polar Express! No matter how many times we’ve done it, it never loses its wonder. If I had to choose just one word to describe the Polar Express experience, it would be pure MAGIC.

One of my favorite things is arriving at the train depot early. We always make it a point to get there with plenty of time so we can really soak it all in before the ride begins. The whole place is decorated so festively and adorably—it’s like stepping into a Christmas wonderland. Twinkling lights, garlands, wreaths, and themed displays fill every corner, and it sets the tone for the evening perfectly. We love walking around, taking in all the details, and snapping tons of pictures. It’s such a fun way to start the experience before the train even pulls up.

Then, when it’s finally time to board, the real magic begins. The moment you step onto the train, it truly feels like you’ve stepped right into the pages of the book—or straight into the movie itself. The attention to detail is incredible, and the festive spirit is absolutely contagious. The sound of the train whistle, the carols playing softly in the background, the excited chatter from kids (and adults!)—it all comes together to create this heartwarming, cinematic kind of night.

One of my favorite parts is when they read The Polar Express aloud. Even though we’ve heard it so many times, there's something extra special about hearing the story while actually being on a train bound for the "North Pole." You can feel the kids leaning in, wide-eyed and completely captivated. Then comes the hot chocolate and cookies—served just like in the movie, complete with dancing chefs and plenty of whipped cream. It’s cozy, it’s fun, and it always makes the whole train car erupt in giggles and smiles.

But the real magic happens when we “arrive” at the North Pole. Lights twinkle in the darkness, and the excitement is almost electric. Then, of course, comes the big moment: Santa himself boards the train. Watching the kids’ faces as he makes his way down the aisle, handing out silver bells and taking the time to chat with each child—there’s nothing quite like it. It’s joyful and nostalgic, all wrapped up into one perfect, unforgettable moment.

As the train rolls back into the station, there's this quiet kind of happiness that settles in. Bell in hand, cocoa in our bellies, hearts completely full. These are the nights that stay with you—the kind that you look back on for years and feel nothing but warmth and gratitude.

I cherish these moments with our family. Life moves fast, and the holidays can sometimes feel like a blur, but this tradition forces us to slow down and just be—be present, be together, and be filled with joy. It’s more than a ride; it’s a memory in the making, and one I’ll treasure always.