Santa on the Polar Express
Theatrical release poster
The “Polar Express" the popular book by the author Chris Van Allsburg and the movie based on the book has made Santa train trips all the rage in recent years. You’ll find many area town park districts, public libraries, convention and visitor bureaus, Jaycees, the Chicago Transit Authority, the Illinois Railway Museum and the Fox River Trolley Museum, among others all offering Polar Express trips or holiday trains, featuring Santa Claus. These trips have proven to be very popular—be sure to book early, most of these trips sell out weeks or even months in advance. Remember, trains don’t wait for anyone, plan on arriving at the station at least fifteen or twenty minutes before departure time.
Addison
Santa on the Addison Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Times: 9:11 am to 10:23 am & 11:11 am to 12:23 pm
Trip departs: Itasca Metra Station
Irving Park Road (Route19) and Maple Street
Sponsor: Addison Park District
(630) 833-0100
www.addisonparkdistrict.org
pre-registration required
Cost: Adults $17 residents; $25 non-residents; Children residents (6 and under) $13; non-residents $21
The wonderful Christmas story, the “Polar Express” will be read, while the kids are enjoying chocolate milk and cookies on the train trip to the North Pole. Santa will meet the incoming train and join in the fun for the return trip. Please note, space for this trip is very limited.
Arlington Heights
Santa on the Arlington Heights Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Time: 8:15 am - 11:16 am (Arlington Heights - Chicago)
Time :10:55 am - 1:16 pm (Arlington Heights - Chicago)
Time: 2:15 - 5:16 pm (Arlington Heights - Chicago)
Trip departs: Arlington Heights Metra Station,
Downtown Arlington Heights
Sponsor: Arlington Heights Park District
(847) 577-3000
www.ahpd.org/
Cost: Residents: Adults & Children - $18
Non-residents Adults & Children - $28.50
Santa will be on the trains visiting with the children—treats will be served and the Polar express story will be read during the trip. This is a very popular trip—book early!
Aurora
Santa at the Blackberry Farm Polar Express
Saturday December 3rd & 10th
Sunday, December 4th & 11th, 2011
Sponsor: Fox Valley Park District
Train is located at: Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Road
Aurora, IL 60506
(630) 892-1550
Time : 2 pm to 6 pm each day
reservations are not required
www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
Cost: $4.00 admission
Blackberry Farm will be all lit up for the season with thousands upon thousands of twinkling lights. For two weekends in December kids can ride on the “Polar Express.” The holiday train chugs its way around Lake Gregory at Blackberry Farm before returning to the old-fashioned depot. The Polar Express story is read in the old red brick school and visits with Santa are held in the Early Streets Museum.
Note: if there is a cancellation due to weather then the snow date is Saturday, December 17th.
Barrington
Santa on the Barrington Polar Express
Saturday December 10th, 2011
Times: 9:32 am to 12:18 pm and 11:32 am to 2:15 pm
Trips departs: Barrington Metra Train Station
201 S. Spring Street
Main and Spring Streets
Barrington, IL 60010
Sponsor: Barrington Park District
(847) 381-0687
www.barringtonparkdistrict.org
Pre-registration required - Deadline November 25th
Cost: Resident children $15; Non-Resident children $18
Resident adults $13; Non-Resident adults $16
All aboard! This trip to the North Pole will take participants to Pirros Restaurante in Woodstock. Children will hear the fabled Polar Express story, there will be gingerbread cookies to decorate plus cocoa and cider at the restaurant. Of course the children will visit with Santa Claus who will have bags of treats for all the kids. Book early—this popular event fills up quickly.
Bartlett
Santa on the Polar Express Trolley Night Ride
Tuesday, December 20th, 2011
Time : There are nine trips scheduled from 5:20pm until 8pm
Trip meets at: Bartlett Community Center
Oak Room
700 S. Bartlett Avenue
Bartlett, IL 60103
Sponsor: Bartlett Park District
(630) 540-4800
www.bartlettparks.org
registration required - program is subject to a random registration draw
Cost: Residents: Adults & Children - $10
Non-residents: Adults & Children - $15
Parents and children—who are encouraged to wear their pajamas—meet at the Bartlett Community Center where the excitement begins. From there participants travel to to the "North Pole" actually the South Elgin trolley station where they will board the "Polar Express". Santa meets everyone when they arrive at his workshop at the North Pole. There will be plenty of activities, treats and good times or everyone. Don't forget to bring your camera..
Batavia
Santa on the Batavia Polar Express
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Trip times: 5:40 pm to 6:40 pm and 6:45 pm to 7:45 pm
Trips departs: Fox River Trolley Museum
Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve station
35W003 Il Route 31
South Elgin, IL 60177
Sponsor: Batavia Park District
www.bataviaparks.org
Registration required for children two and up.
(630) 879-5235
Cost: Residents $25, Non-residents $33
Batavia children and their parents get to make the exciting trip to the North Pole starting at at the Fox River Trolley Museum. Hot chocolate will be served and the children will be read the magical Polar Express story, meet Santa Claus and receive a bell as a gift.
Bensenville
Santa on the Bensenville Polar Express
Saturday December 17th, 2011
Time: 11:03: am - 12:31 pm
Trip departs: Bensenville Metra Train Station
1000 W. Wood Avenue
Bensenville, IL 60106
Sponsor: Bensenville Park District
(630) 766-7015
www.bensenvilleparkdistrict.org
registration required - Deadline November 11th
Ages - infants up to children age 10
Cost: Residents $12 Non-Residents $15
This Polor express trip leaves from the Bensenville train station to the North Pole—Elgin. Along the way children will be read the story, "The Polar Express", while Santa takes time to visit with each child and give each a Christmas present. Registration deadline is November 22nd.
Berwyn
Santa on the Berwyn Polar Express
for Families with Children who have Special Needs
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Time:: 12:25 pm to 3:30 pm (Train departs at 12:55 pm)
Trips departs: Berwyn Metra Train Station
6801 Windsor Avenue
Oak Park Avenue & Windsor
Berwyn, IL 60402
between Grove and Oak Park Avenues
Sponsor: WSSRA - West Suburban Special Recreation Association
(847) 455-2100
www.wssra.net
Pre-registration required - tickets are limited
Cost: Children - 11 and under $8 per child; Adults or any one over 12
$15 per person
This train trip is only for families of children who have disabilities and are members of West Suburban Special Recreation Association. Children take a real train ride, but make an imaginary trip to the North Pole (actually the Aurora train station). The delightful Polar Express story is used as the basis for the trip and will be read. Santa will join everyone at the North Pole and will be part of the joyful ride home. Refreshments will be served and wheelchair seating is available. This popular trip fills up quickly.
Photo courtesy West Suburban Special Recreation Association
Santa on the Berwyn Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th,
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Times: 2:30 pm to 5:14 pm (Train departs at 2:45 pm)
Trips departs: Berwyn Metra Train Station
6801 Windsor Avenue
Berwyn, IL 60402
between Grove and Oak Park Avenues
Sponsor: Berwyn Park District
(708) 795-2892
www.berwynparks.org
Pre-registration required - Registration begins October 3rd
Cost: $8 - children ages 1 to 11; $15 ages 12 and up
This train trip takes Berwyn children to the North Pole (actually the Aurora train station). The Polar Express story will be read on the train. Santa will join the children at the North Pole and make the return trip with them where there will be plenty of fun for all. Book early, this trip is sure to sell out.
Blue Island
Santa on the Blue Island Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Trip times: 10:45 am & 2:45 pm
Trip departs: Blue Island - Vermont Street Metra Station
2300 W. Grove Street
Blue Island, IL 60406
Sponsor: Blue Island Park District
blueislandparks.org
Registration required - tickets must be purchases by November 23rd
(708) 388-6421
Cost: $10 Residents; $15 Non-residents
Children in Blue Island can take the train trip to the Norh Pole to find Santa Claus. Mrs. Claus will be on the train both ways and Santa will be with the kids on the return trip. There will be holiday songs, treats and a memorable experience for everyone. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want pictures of the kids with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Space is very limited for this program.
Bolingbrook
Santa on the Bolingbrook Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th,
Sunday December 11th, 2011
Time: T/B/A
Trip departs: Downers Grove Main Street Metra Station
Sponsor: Bolingbrook Park District
www.bolingbrookparks.org
(630) 739-0272
registration required
For special needs children only
Cost: $39
Children will hear the classic story, “The Polar express” aboard the train taking them to the North Pole (Aurora). They will meet with Santa at Payton’s Roundhouse for a visit, pictures, snacks and drinks. There will be holiday entertainment and plenty of fun for all. Please note, this program is available for special needs children only.
Burr Ridge
Santa on the Burr Ridge Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Time: 8:45 am to 12:55 pm
Trips departs: Hinsdale Metra Train Station
21 E. Hinsdale Avenue
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Sponsor: Burr Ridge Park District
(630) 920-1969
www.brparks.org/
Pre-registration required
Cost: $38 residents; $43 non-residents
Enjoy a holiday favorite—a Polar Express trip from the Hinsdale train station to the North Pole where you will have a buffet breakfast. Here the children meet with Santa, have a picture taken and enjoy holiday crafts and entertainment plus they take home a gift. Note: This trip always sells out, please book early!
Carol Stream
Santa on the Carol Stream Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Times: 11am to1 pm
and 3 pm to 5 pm
Trips departs: Roselle Metra Station,
540 Irving Park Road
Roselle, IL 60172
Sponsor: Carol Stream Park District
(630) 784-6100
www.csparks.org
Cost: Residents: $8; Non-residents $12
All aboard for a trip to the North Pole (Roselle to Elgin) for children two and up. The Polar Express story will be read to the children on the first part of the trip. When the train arrives at the North Pole, they will be met by Santa who will be with them for the ride back home. There will be holiday songs and Santa will make time for a visit with each child. Refreshments will be served and every child will receive a small keepsake.
Cary
Santa on the Cary Train to Santa's Workshop
Friday, December 2nd
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Times: Friday, 11:40 am - 2:08 pm
Saturday, 11:08 am - 1:43 pm
Trip departs: Cary Metra Station
100 West Main Street
(Route 134 and Cedar Lake Road)
Cary, IL 60013
Sponsor: Cary Park District
(847) 961-6100
reservations required - deadline November 4th
www.carypark.com
Cost: $18 for resident children; $27 non-resident children
$15 for resident adults; $23 non-resident adults
This train trip is from Round Lake to Crystal Lake on Friday and to Palatine on Saturday, (Santa's Workshop) . The boys and girls will be met by Santa Claus, who will hear the children's wish lists. On Friday, there will be a buffet meal at Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen in Crystal Lake—Saturday it will be at Durty Nellie's in Palatine. A great day for all the little one is guaranteed.
Chicago
Santa Claus on the CTA Holiday Train
Friday, November 25th through Tuesday, December 22nd 2011
Sponsor: Chicago Transit Authority
1-888-968-7282
Cost: Normal fares apply—there is no premium to ride on the Holiday Train
Note: For detailed schedule for the Holiday Train check the CTA website: Here’s the link to the 2011Holiday Train page - www.transitchicago.com/holidaytrain/
Holiday Schedule 2011:
Note: The specific times the trains will be running are not yet available:
The days the CTA Holiday Trains will operate are:
· Green Line: November 25, 26 and 30
· Orange and Brown Lines: December 1-3
· Pink Line: December 7
· Blue Line: December 8-10
· Red Line- December 14, 16, 17 and 20
· Purple Line: December 15, 17 and 21
· Yellow Line: December 22
Every Christmas season The Chicago Transit Authority gives the citizens of the windy city a marvelous gift—the CTA Holiday train. This spectacular and beautifully lit up train with Santa and his elves, runs on different CTA routes from Friday, November 25th through Tuesday, December 22nd, 2011. The six car train can be seen coming from a long way off, with thousands of brightly colored lights festooning the cars. The interiors of the cars are gaily decorated with a plethora of multi-colored lights, garlands and red bows with poles wrapped to resemble candy-canes. Santa arrives in dramatic fashion, on a sleigh in an open flatbed car in the middle of the train—which has been outfitted with reindeer, Christmas trees and luminous shining lights. As the train pulls into a station Santa can be seen greeting the children and boarding passengers and of course ho ho hoing! Santa Claus on the CTA Holiday Train.
CTA Holiday Train is a TOP 10 SANTA EVENT IN CHICAGOLAND AND NORTHERN ILLINOIS.
The CTA Holiday Train
Chicago Ridge
Santa on the Chicago Ridge Polar Express
Sunday, December 10th, 2011
Times: 11:30 am to 2:10 pm
Trips departs: Chicago Ridge Metra Station,
103rd Street & Ridgeland Avenue
Chicago Ridge, IL 60415
Sponsor: Chicago Ridge Park District
(708) 636-4900
www.chicagoridgeparks.com
registration required - deadline December 2nd
Cost: Residents: $5; Non-residents $10
Kids, take a trip to the North Pole (Chicago Ridge to Union Station in Chicago). The Polar Express story will be read to the children, there will be Christmas treats, crafts and a visit by Santa himself. Remember to bring your camera. Space is very limited for this event.
Clarendon Hills
Santa on the Clarendon Hills Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Time: 1 pm to 3 pm
Trip departs: Clarendon Hills Metra Station
1 South Prospect Avenue
Prospect Avenue at Burlington
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Sponsor: Clarendon Hills Park District
(630) 323-2626
registration required
www.clarendonhillsparkdistrict.org
Cost: $20 per person - children under one year of age are free
There will be the magical “Polar Express” story on the train, hot chocolate and cookies. When the train reaches the North Pole—Aurora, Santa joins the group. He will be on the ride back for songs with the children and a chance for you to take pictures. This trip for Clarendon Hills residents only, because it is popular you need to sign up early.
Des Plaines
Santa on the Des Plaines Polar Express
Sunday November, 27th &
Sunday December, 4th 2011
Times: 10:15 am to 1:44 pm and 2:15 pm to 5:44 pm
Trip departs: Des Plaines Metra Station
1501 Miner Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Sponsor: Des Plaines Park District
(847) 391-5700
registration required - deadline is November 18th
www.desplainesparks.org
Cost: Residents $19 per person - $9 under three
Non-residents $24 per person - $12 under three
The Polar Express story will be read as the train travels to the North Pole (Harvard, Illinois) where the children will meet Santa Claus. There will be holiday songs, chocolate milk, cookies, games and time for pictures and visits with Santa. Space is limited for this trip and it books up fast.
Downers Grove
Santa on the Downers Grove Polar Express
Saturday, November 19th
Sunday, November, 20th, 2011
Times Saturday: Two departures, 8:40 am to 10:45 am and 10:45 am to 12:45 pm
Times Sunday: Two departures, 12:40 pm to 2:45 pm and 2:45 pm to 4:45 pm
Trips depart: Downers Grove Main Street Metra Station
Sponsor: Downers Grove Park District
www.dgparks.org
(630) 963 1300
registration required
Cost: Residents $30 - non-residents $40
Hop on the train in Downers Grove for the magical trip to the North Pole—Aurora. On the way the "The Polar Express" story will be read and chocolate milk and cookies will be served. At the North Pole, Santa Claus boards the train and joins in the merriment for the return trip. Early registration is open to Downers Grove residents only, non-residents will be placed on a wait list until residents have been accommodated. Note: These trips are very popular and book up early.
Santa on the Downers Grove JBSRA Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Time: T/B/A
Trips depart: Downers Grove Main Street Metra Station
Sponsor: Joliet-Bolingbrook Special Recreation Association—JBSRA
www.bolingbrookparks.org
(630) 739-5806
registration required - deadline October 1st.
Cost: $39
The Joliet-Bolingbrook Special Recreation Association—JBSRA has a Polar Express trip for their members who have disabilities. The journey for this exciting trip starts at the Downers Grove Metra station. On the way the the Polar Express story will be read. Upon arrival, everyone heads for Walter Payton’s Roundhouse where pictures with Santa will be taken and there will be snacks, beverages and holiday entertainment. Transportation will be provided to the Downers Grove Station. These trips are for JBSRA members only and they fills up quickly.
Elk Grove Village
Santa on the Elk Grove Village Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
There will be 3 departures on Saturday
Times: 9 am to 10:30 am; 11 am to 12:30 pm
and 1 pm to 2:30 am
Trips departs: Itasca Metra Station
Irving Park Road (Route 19) & Walnut Street
Sponsor: Elk Grove Park District
(847) 437-9494
registration required
www.elkgroveparks.org
Cost: Residents: children ages two & up $18, adults $13.
Non-residents: children ages two & up $23, non-resident adults $13.
Once again, kids get to hear the “Polar Express” story by Chris Van Allsburg have snacks and meet Santa at the North Pole (or Elgin if you prefer). There will be visits with Santa on the way back along with treats for the kids.
Elmhurst
Santa on the Elmhurst Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Times: Two departures - 11 am to 1:15 pm and 3 pm to 5:15 pm
Trips departs: Elmhurst Metra Station
128 W. 1st Street at York Road
Sponsor: Elmhurst Park District
(630) 993-8901
registration required
www.epd.org
Cost: $18 Adult resident; $ 22 Adult non-resident
$13 Child resident; $20 Child non-resident
The “Polar Express” story comes to life when the children get on the train to go to the North Pole—Elburn. There will be treats, Christmas carols, cookies and a special visit with Santa Claus on the way home. Tickets for this event are now completely sold out.
Frankfort
Santa on the Frankfort Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Times: Two departures - 9:31 am sharp and 11:31 am sharp
Trips departs: Hickory Creek Metra Station
9430 Hickory Creek Drive
Mokena, IL 60448
Sponsor: Frankfort Park District
(815) 469-9400
registration required
www.frankfortparks.org
Cost: $7 per person residents; $ 12 per person non-residents
Listen to magical “Polar Express” story and enjoy cookies when the children and their parents ride the train to the North Pole where they will meet Santa Claus. He will return with time for pictures and yes, plenty of fun with the kids.
Geneva
Santa on the Geneva Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Times: 11 am to 3 pm - there are six departures starting at 10:45 am
Sunset Community Center
710 Western Avenue
Geneva, IL 60134
Sponsor: Geneva Park District
For information: (630) 232-4542
registration required
www.genevaparks.org
Cost: Residents - $27 Family of two; Non-residents - $40 Family of two
Get ready to ride on the Polar Express which goes to the North Pole where you’ll find Santa and Mrs. Claus and real reindeer. There will be time to make a craft, enjoy refreshments and to get pictures with old Santa. Please note these are not real trips on a train, these are wagon trips at Peck Farm Park.
Glen Ellyn
Santa on the Glen Ellyn Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, & 17th
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Times: Saturday, December 10th, 1st departure 9:10 am -10:40 am
Saturday December, 10th, 2nd departure 11:10 am -1 pm
Saturday, December, 17th ,departs 9:10 am -10:40 am
Sunday, December 18th, 1st departure - 1:10 pm - 3 pm
Sunday, December 18th, 2nd departure - 3:10 pm - 5 pm
All trips depart: Glen Ellyn Metra Station
551 Crescent, Glen Ellyn
Sponsor: Glen Ellyn Park District
For information:
(630) 858-2462
registration required
www.gepark.org
Cost: $20 per resident child; $30 per non-resident child.
$12 per resident adult; $18 per non-resident adult.
Be sure not to miss the train for this trip to the North Pole. Guess what, the Polar Express will be read to the kids who will recycie their own copy of the story. Chocolate milk and cookies will be served and everyone gets to talk to Santa and sing holiday songs. For children age one year and up. Please note, these trips sell out early.
Glenview
Santa on the Glenview Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, & 17th
Sunday, December 4th, & 11th 2011
Times: Saturday, December 3rd & 11th, 1:15 pm - 3: 15 pm
Sunday, December 4th 11:15 am - 1:15 pm
Sunday, December 17th 12:15 pm - 2:15 pm
Trips depart: Glenview Metra Station
1116 Depot Street
Glenview, IL 60025
Sponsor: Glenview Park District
For information: (847) 724-3337
registration required - Registration begins July 30th for residents
& September 7th for non-residents
glenviewparks.org
Cost: $18 per person
Glenview’s Polar Express will head for the North Pole—Fox Lake where the kids will come face to face with Santa Claus. On the way they will enjoy milk and cookies, sing holiday songs and be read the magical Polar Express story. Santa will be on the train for the return trip and he has a gift for each child. Be sure to bring your camera. Remember to book early, space is very limited for these trips.
Grayslake
Santa on the Grayslake Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Times: 1:30 pm - 3 pm and 3:30 pm - 5 pm
Trips depart: Grayslake Metra Station
Lake and St. Paul Streets
Grayslake, IL 60030
Sponsor: Grayslake Park District
For information:
(847) 223-7529
registration required
www.glpd.com
Cost: Children residents - $9; Non-residents $11
Adult residents - $11; Non-residents $14
Get ready for an exciting trip on the Polar Express to the North Pole—Fox Lake where Santa Claus will be waiting to greet the children and have a special gift for them. The children will be read the “Polar Express” story on the outbound trip and will sing carols, enjoy snacks plus there will be prize drawings on the ride home. Space is very limited for this trip and it fills up quickly.
Santa on the Grayslake SRACLC Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd 2011
Times: 12:45 pm to 4 pm
Trip departs: Grayslake Metra Station
Lake and St. Paul Streets
Grayslake, IL 60030
Note: Families will meet at 12:45 pm at the SRACLC Office in Vernon Hills and at 1:15 pm at the Recreation Center in Grayslake and dropped off at 3:30 pm at the Recreation Center in Grayslake and at 4 pm at the SRACLC Office in Vernon Hills.
Sponsor: Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County
For information: (847) 816-4866
registration required
sraclc.org
Cost: Residents - $28; Non-residents $35
This Polar Express Trip is for children, ages four to twelve with disabilities and their families who are members of the Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County (SRACLC), serving residents of Grayslake, Hawthorn woods, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Mundelein and Vernon Hills. The train will make the journey to the North Pole (Fox Lake) while the kids listen to the fabled Polar Express Story. At the North Pole they will have a chance to visit with Santa and get pictures. There will be snacks, songs and a special gift on the return trip. Space is at a premium for this trip.
Hanover Park
Santa on the Hanover Park Polar Express
Sunday, December, 11th, &
Sunday, December, 18th, 2011
Times: 1:45 pm to 3:30 pm
Trips depart: Hanover Park Metra Station
Lake Street (Route) 20 one block west of Barrington Road
Sponsor: Hanover Park Park District
(630) 372-PARK
Advance registration required
Registration closes when all tickets are sold
www.hpparks.org
Cost: $10 for adults, $15 for non-residents
$8 for children, &12 for non-residents
Hanover Park is another town offering a Polar Express train trip from Hanover Park to the North Pole. There will be holiday music, the Polar Express story and Santa Claus, plus hot chocolate and treats at the station for the group. Santa has a gift for each child—remember to bring your camera. This popular trip will sell out early.
Highland Park
Santa on the Highland Park Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, &
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Times: 9 am & 3 pm, Saturday, December 3rd
Time: 9 am Saturday, December 10th
Trip departs: Highland Park Downtown Metra Station
Sponsor: Park District of Highland Park
(847) 579-3120
reservations required
www.pdhp.org/
Cost: Residents: children $15 - adults $25
Non-residents: children $22 - adults $45
Take the trip to the North Pole—Waukegan, with Highland Park children who will hear a storyteller read the story, “Polar Express”. Hot chocolate will be served before the train departs. Santa will be visiting with the children on the return trip, there will be holiday music and plenty of fun for all.
Hinsdale
Santa on the Hinsdale Polar Express
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Trip Times: 9 am to 12:15 pm and 3 pm to 6:20 pm
Trip departs: Hinsdale Metra Station
21 W. Hinsdale Avenue (Hinsdale at Washington Street)
Sponsor: Hinsdale Park and Recreation Department
(630) 789-7090
www.villageofhinsdale.org/pr/
registration required
Cost: $37 per person, ages two and up.
Non-residents $55 per person
Get on the train in your pajamas in Hinsdale and head for the North Pole where you’ll meet with Santa Claus. A buffet meal will be served at the North Pole (Walter Payton’s Roundhouse Restaurant—in the Aurora station). There will be time for photographs, crafts and more. This program is restricted to Hinsdale residents. Non residents can register after November 15th if there are any remaining spots. It's recommended you book early for this popular program.
Hoffman Estates
Santa on the Hoffman Estates Polar Express
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
Time: 9 am to 11 am
Trip departs: Schaumburg Metra Station
2000 S. Springinsguth Road
Sponsor: Hoffman Estates Park District
For Information: (847) 885-7500
www.heparks.org
registration required
Cost: $10 for residents, $12 for non-residents.
Ages three and up
Take a ride on the Polar Express and hear the story by Chris Van Allsburg along the way. On the way back, Santa will join in the fun. There will be Christmas Carols and gifts for the children. Note—space is very limited.
Itasca
Santa on the Itasca Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Three trips are scheduled:
Time: 9 am - 10:30 am (Itasca to Elgin, round trip)
Time: 11 am - 12:30 pm (Itasca to Elgin, round trip)
Time: 1 pm - 2:30 pm (Itasca to Elgin, round trip)
Trips departs: Itasca Metra Station,
Irving Park Road (Route19) and Maple Street
Sponsor: Itasca Park District
((630) 773-2257
www.itasca.com
pre-registration required
Cost: Adults & Children - $16
Children 6-months and under are free.
All aboard for an exciting trip to the North Pole where the kids will meet with Santa. It's ok to wear pajamas. There will be a story, and plenty to do—there will be chocolate milk and cookies for everyone, plus each kid will receive a gift from Santa.
Joliet
Santa on the Will County C A S A Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Four trips are scheduled:
From 8:24 am until the last departure at 2:24 pm
Trips departs: Joliet Union Station,
50 East Jefferson Street
Joliet, IL 60431
Sponsor: C A S A Court Appointed Special Advocates of Will County
(815) 730-7072
www.casaofwillcounty.org
Tickets must be purchased in advance
Cost: T/B/A
C A S A are court appointed volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children in Will County. This Polar Express program is a fund raiser for these children.
Here’s a great family trip which takes the kids to the North Pole—Joliet to Tinley Park where everyone joins in the village holiday festivities and meets Santa. Cookies and cocoa will be served at Durbins in Tinley Park. Please note: Tickets for this event are completely sold out.
La Grange
Santa on the La Grange Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Time: 8:45 am - 11:05 am
Trip departs: La Grange Road Metra Station
125 W. Burlington Rd.
LaGrange, IL 60525
Sponsor: Park District of La Grange
(708) 352-1762
registration required
www.pdlg.org
Cost: Adults $15 residents; $20 non-residents
Children $12 residents; $16 non-residents
This Polar Express trip heads for Naperville which is the North Pole where they are going to meet Santa Claus. The Polar Express story will be read on the trip, there will be a drink and a treat in Naperville. Santa will then hop on board for the return trip, where the fun for everyone will continue.
Lake Forest
Santa on the Lake Forest Polar Express
Saturday, December 17th,
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Times: Saturday 11 am to 1:30 pm
Sunday 1 pm to 3:30 pm
Trip departs: Lake Forest West Metra Station
10205 North Waukegan Road
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Sponsor: The City of Lake Forest
Parks and Recreation
(847) 234-2600
registration required
cityoflakeforest.com
Cost: Residents $15; Non-residents $18
Chris Van Allsburg’s story, “The Polar Express” will be read to the children during their train trip to the North Pole (Fox Lake) while they are enjoying hot chocolate. Santa will meet the train at the North Pole and ride back—there will be holiday songs and plenty of fun for everyone. Note: Both departures are sold out, only wait lists are being taken.
Lisle
Santa on the Lisle Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Time: 9:45 am & 1:45 pm
Trips departs: Lisle Metra Station
Mail ticket requests to: Polar Express
PO Box 4327
Lisle, IL 60532
Sponsor: Lisle Convention & Visitor Bureau
(630) 769-1000
reservations required
www.lislecvb.com
Cost: $16.00 per person for both children and adults
Please note, the above date and times are tentative, more information will be available in late September .Here’s another Polar Express train trip. This one goes from Lisle to Union Station in Chicago—or the North Pole if you prefer. There will be Santa, elves, costumed characters and holiday activities are featured. For tickets send a check made out to: Lisle Polar Express, to the address listed above, along with a self-addressed stamped envelope. Tickets will be sent out starting around October 20th.
Lombard
Santa on the Lombard Polar Express
Saturday, December, 10th,
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Times: 10:45 am to 2:30 pm
Trips departs: Downers Grove Main Street Metra Station
Sponsor: Butterfield Park District
Lombard, IL 60148
(630) 858-2229
registration required - registration ends November 18th
www.butterfieldpd.com
Cost: $30 per person for residents; $40 per person non-residents; children under two are free
Children will take a magical train ride to the North Pole, where they will go to Santa’s workshop for lunch. Santa's workshop is America's Banquets in Aurora. While there, they will make a holiday craft and have pictures with the jolly old elf. They will also have time for some great games. Santa Claus will read a classic holiday story and there will be holiday songs on the trip home. It is recommended that tickets be purchased early for this popular event.
Morton Grove
Santa on the Morton Grove Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Time: 5:30 pm to 7:15 pm
Trip departs: Morton Grove Metra Station
8501 Lehigh Road
Morton Grove, IL
Sponsor: Morton Grove Park District
6834 W. Dempster
Morton Grove, IL 60053
For information: (847) 965-1200
registration required
www.mortongroveparks.com
Cost: $12 per ticket
This trip is for Morton Grove children who want to go to the North Pole. When you get there, Santa Claus will be waiting for the young ones and will ride back on the train while everyone enjoys milk and cookies. Because of very limited space a lottery which runs from August 1st through October 3rd, will be used for registration. Note, this event is for Morton Grove residents only.
Mount Prospect
Santa on the Mount Prospect Polar Express
Monday, December 19th,
Tuesday, December 20th
Wednesday, December 21st, 2011
Times: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday - 1:20 pm to 4 pm
Trip departs: Prospect Heights Metra Station
55 S. Wolf Road
Prospect Heights, IL 60070
Sponsor: River Trails Park District
For information: (847) 255-1200
www.rtpd.org
registration required
Ages: for children one month and up.
Cost: $12 per person
For a day of fun, take a trip on the Polar Express to the North Pole. Each child will receive a small gift. Leaves from Prospect Heights station and goes to Lake Villa, (the North Pole).
Naperville
Santa Train in Naperville
Saturday December 3rd, 2011
Times: 10 am and 12 noon departures
Trip departs: Metra Station
200 East 5th Avenue
Naperville, IL 60563
Sponsor: Naperville Jaycees
(630) 961-9375
reservations required
www.naperjaycees.org
Cost: $15 per person, $5 for children under one
Every year a Santa train is run by the Naperville Jaycees. There is plenty of time to converse with Santa, play some games, and sing songs along the way. Tickets can be purchased—if available, online at the Naperville Jaycees website and at Oswald's Pharmacy and the DuPage Children's Museum, both located in Naperville.
Oakbrook Terrace
Santa Train in Oakbrook Terrace
Saturday December 10th,
Sunday December 11th, 2011
Times: 11 am to 2:30 pm
Trip departs: Downers Grove Metra Station
Main Street Station
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Sponsor: Oakbrook Terrace Parks Department
& Butterfield Park District
(630) 627-6100
reservations required - Deadline November 18th
www.obtpd.org
Cost: $30 per person for Oakbrook Terrace residents and $40 for non-residents.
Take a ride to the North Pole and hear the story of the Polar Express. At Santa’s workshop (America's Banquets in Aurora), lunch will be served and there will be pictures with Santa and a holiday craft. One the way home, there will be Christmas songs and Santa will read a story. Note—this event sells out quickly.
Oak Park
Santa on the Oak Park Trolley Express
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Six trolly trips are scheduled
Times: 10 am to 11:30 am; 10:30 am to Noon; 11:15 am to 12:30 pm
11:45 am to 1:15 pm; 12:30 pm to 2 pm; 12:45 pm to 2 pm
Trips departs: Barrie Center
1011 Lombard
Oak Park, IL 60302
Sponsor: Park District of Oak Park
(708) 383-0002
registration required
www.oakparkparks.com
Cost: $12 residents; $18 non-residents
The kids from Oak Park can take their exciting Polar Express train trip to the North Pole to find Santa. There will be chocolate milk, cookies, stories and holiday songs and Santa visits—you’ll also meet Mrs. Claus Families will be selected by lottery.
These Polar Express trips are not on the train, they are motorized trolly rides.
Oswego
Santa on the Oswego Holiday Trolley Express
Friday, December 9th, Saturday December 10th,
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Trolly trips are scheduled to run every twenty minutes
Times: Friday 4:30 am to 8 pm
Saturday 2 pm to 3:30 pm
Sunday 3:30 am to 8 pm
Trips departs: Santa Station
Prairie Point
313 East Washington Street
Oswego, IL 60543
Sponsor: Oswegoland Park District
(630) 554-1010
registration in person at Boulder Point Center required
www.oswegolandparkdistrict.org
Cost: $10 residents; $15 non-residents
Enjoy the Polar Express story on the way to the North Pole where you will meet Santa Claus, see real reindeer and sip hot cocoa and warm yourself by the fire. These Polar Express trips are not on the train, they are motorized trolley rides.
Park Ridge
Santa on the Park Ridge Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Times: 12:20 pm to 2:30 pm 4:20 pm to 6 pm
Trip departs: Park Ridge Dee Road Metra Station
Sponsor: Park Ridge Recreation & Park District
(847) 692-3621
registration required
www.prparks.org
Cost: $20 resident; $34 non-resident
Park Ridge children and their parents get to take the journey to the North Pole, (downtown Chicago) where the “Polar Express” story comes to life. There will be refreshments and Christmas Carols along the way. Santa joins in the fun on the way back where the good times continue. Be sure to book early.
Plainfield
Santa on the Plainfield Polar Express
Friday, December 9th, 2011
Times: 4 pm to 9:30 pm - there are ten departures starting at 4 pm
Four Seasons Park
Lockport Street - West of I-55
Plainfield, IL 60544
Sponsor: Plainfield Park District
For information: (815) 436-8812
registration required
www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com
Cost: Residents - $7; non-residents - $10.50
Put on something warm and get ready to journey to the North Pole on a wagon ride. Along the way the Polar Express story by Chris Van Allsburg will be read. Upon arrival you’ll find Santa and his elves waiting to see the kids. Cookies and cocoa will be served by the campfire and Santa has a silver bell for each child. Please note these are not real trips on a train, these are hayrack wagon trips at Four Seasons Park.
Round Lake
Santa on the Round Lake Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Times: 11:55 am - 1 pm and 1:40 pm - 3 pm
Trip departs: Round Lake Metra Station
Route 134 and Cedar Lake Road
Round Lake, IL 60073
Sponsor: Round Lake Area Park District
(847) 546-8558
Registration required - begins October 4th for residents
& October 18 for non-residents
www.roundlakeareaparkdistrict.org
Cost: $15 residents; $20 non-residents
Take a trip on the magical Polar Express to the North Pole—Round Lake to Fox Lake and back. The children will hear the classic story, sing Christmas songs, enjoy snacks and best of all, ride back with Santa Claus. Space is very limited.
Sandwich
Santa on the Sandwich Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Trip times: 5:30 pm - 6 pm
6 pm - 6:30 pm
6:30 pm - 7 pm
All trips departs: from the David A. Francis Center
1001 N. Latham Street
Sandwich, IL 60548
Sponsor: Sandwich Park District
(815) 786-8044
www.sandwichpark district.org
Tickets are not available in advance, they can only be purchased on Saturday, December 3rd, first come, first served. Only 30 passenger can be accommodated on each departure.
Cost: $5 per person
This Polar Express trip is not on the train, it is on a motorized trolly ride through Sandwich to the North Pole to visit Santa. The classic Polar Express story will be read during the trip. Upon the return to the community center, (the North Pole) the children will meet with Santa. Cookies and cocoa will be served, plus Santa has a bell for each child.
Skokie
Santa on the Skokie Polar Express
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
Times: 8:35 am - 11:45 am
12:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Trips departs: Glenview Metra Station
1021 Depot Avenue
Glenview, IL
Sponsor: Skokie Park District
9300 Weber Park Place
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 674-1500
registration required
Cost: $12 residents; $14 non-residents
www.SkokieParkDistrict.org
Hop on Skokie’s Polar Express (leaving from the Glenview Metra Station) to the North Pole (also known as Fox Lake) and enjoy cookies and chocolate milk. There will be carols while the children listen to the story “The Polar Express.” Santa gets on the train at the North Pole and rides back with the kids. Space is limited—early registration recommended.
South Barrington
Santa on the South Barrington Polar Express
Thursday, December 8th, 2011
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Time: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
All trips departs: from the Community Center
South Barrington Community Center
3 Tennis Club Lane
South Barrington, IL 60010
Sponsor: South Barrington Park District
(847) 381-7515
www.sbpd.net/
pre-registration required
Cost: Residents $8; Non-residents $12
This Polar Express trip is not on the train, it is on a motorized trolly ride through South Barrington. Children can dress in pajamas for this exciting trip which will recreate the fabled magical adventure. Refreshments will be served upon arrival at the community center. Early registration is advised.
South Elgin
Santa on the South Elgin Polar Express
Saturday, November 26th, December 3rd, 10th & 17th
Sunday, December 4th 11th &18th , 2011
Departure Times: 3:30 pm, 4:35 pm, 5:40 pm, 6:45 pm
Trip departs: Fox River Trolley Museum
Sponsor: Fox River Trolley Museum
Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve station
361 S. LaFox Street—Illinois Route 31
South Elgin, IL 6017
www.foxtrolley.org/events.html
email for reservation questions: foxtrolleytickets@att.net
Cost: Adults and children $20 per ticket
This is another opportunity for children to make the exciting trip to the North Pole where they will find Santa waiting at the Fox River Trolley Museum. There will be caroling, cocoa, entertainment, cookies and a small gift for each child. Reservations are required for this popular event—seats fill up quickly.
St. Charles
Santa on the St. Charles Polar Express
Wednesday, December 7th,
Thursday, December 8th, 2011
Times: Wednesday & Thursday 10:30 am & 2:06 pm
Trips departs: Geneva Metra Station
328 Crescent Place
Geneva, IL 60134
Sponsor: St. Charles Park District
(630) 584-1055
registration required
www.stcparks.org
Cost: Residents $17 - non-residents $25.50
We’ll be heading on the train to the North Pole—Glen Ellyn, to find Santa where where you will enjoy lunch with the old fellow at the Two Toots Whistle & Grill. On the way back he’ll be reading one of the children’s favorite stories, The Polar Express.
Santa on the St. Charles Polar Express
Streamwood
Santa on the Streamwood Polar Express
Sunday, December 18th, 2011
Times: Sunday 11:30 am & 2:30 pm
Trips departs: Schaumburg Metra Station
2000 S. Springinsguth Road
Schaumburg, IL
Sponsor: Streamwood Park District
(630) 372-PARK
registration required
www.streamwoodparkdistrict.org
Cost: Residents 11 years & younger $8.00
non-residents 11 years & younger $14.00
Residents 12 years & older $11.00; non-residents 12 years & younger $18.50
Here’s still one more trip based on the “Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg. The story will be read on the way to the North Pole—Bensenville. There will be snacks, juice, goodie bags, holiday songs and of course Santa on the return trip from the North Pole. Be sure to have your camera with you. Space is at a premium for this program.
Tinley Park
Santa on the Tinley Park Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Train Departure Times: 11:28 am, 1:28 pm & 3:28 pm
Trips departs: Tinley Park Metra Station
18001 S. 80th Avenue
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Sponsor: Tinley Park Park District
(708) 342-4200
registration required
www.tinleyparkdistrict.org
Cost: Residents $10
non-residents $15
Tinley Park has an exciting Polar Express trip to the North Pole (Joliet) where the children will meet Santa Claus. The Polar Express story will be read on the outward trip while the little ones enjoy cookies. The merriment continues on the ride back with Santa. Remember to bring a camera. This program is no longer available, it is now sold out.
Union
Santa at the Happy Holiday Railway in Union
Saturday, December 3rd & 10th
Sunday December 4th & 11th 2011
Times: Times: 1 pm to 4 pm
note: 5 pm & 6 pm rides may be added at a later date
Sponsor: Illinois Railway Museum
7000 Olson Road
Union, IL 60180
(815) 923-4391
www.irm.org
Cost: $12 per person
For two special weekends in December children and families get to take an exciting train trip through dramatic and strikingly beautiful light displays to visit Santa Claus and his elves at their toy workshop. At the end of the visit kids will receive a small gift from the old fellow. Tickets are available online. Note—passes are not honored for this event. The museum grounds and buildings are not open on these days.
Vernon Hills
Santa on the Vernon Hills Polar Express
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
Trip Times
9:42 am - 11:10 am
11:42 am - 1:10 pm
1:42 pm - 3:10 pm
Trips departs: Libertyville Metra Station
200 W. Lake Street
(Lake Street at Milwaukee Avenue)
Sponsor: Libertyville Park District
(847) 996-6800
www.vhparkdistrict.org/
Cost: Residents: $20 - non-residents $25 Children 2 and under are free
This Polar Express ride takes everyone to the North Pole (Fox Lake) where you will meet with Santa Claus and he will ride back with you. There will be a story, plus plenty of fun and goodies for everyone. Children under two are free, but must be registered.
West Chicago
Santa on the West Chicago Polar Express
Saturday, December 10th, and 17th 2011
Times: Both days - 1:39 pm to 2:30 pm and 5:39 pm to 6:30 pm
Trips departs: West Chicago Metra Station
508 W. Main Street
West Chicago, IL 60185
Sponsor: West Chicago Park District
(630) 231-9474
registration required
www.we-goparks.org/trips.htm
Cost: $18 residents, $22 non-residents
This is a great trip on the Metra train decorated for the holidays. While the kids are snacking on cookies and juice they will hear the Polar Express saga and sing Christmas songs. On the way back there will be time for pictures and visits with Santa. Families will receive a “Polar Express” book or a Christmas ornament.
Note—These trips are expected to sell out early.
Westmont
Santa on the Westmont Polar Express
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Times: 11 am to 12:30 pm & 3 pm to 4:30 pm
Trip departs: Westmont Metra Train Station
1 West Quincy Street (Quincy & N. Cass Avenue.
Sponsor: Westmont Park District
Westmont Center
1 S. Cass Avenue
Westmont, IL 60559
(630) 963-5252
registration required
www.wpd4fun.org
Cost: Residents $15; non-residents $23
Everyone meets at the Westmont Center where the “Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg will be read. The next stop is the Westmont Metra Train Station for the trip to the North Pole—Aurora, where the kids will meet Santa and his elves and enjoy refreshments. There will be music and entertainment on the return trip. Families are limited to ten tickets.
Wheaton
Santa on the Wheaton Polar Express
Sunday, December 11th, 2011
Times: 11:15 am to1 pm and 1:15 pm to 3 pm
Trip departs: Wheaton Metra Train Station
402 W. Front Street
Wheaton, Illinois 60187
Sponsors: DuPage County Historical Museum and Wheaton Park District
For information: (630) 510-4956
www.wheatonparkdistrict.com
Cost: Adults $14; Children $18
Children get to take a ride on the “Polar Express” to the North Pole. The classic story will be read on the outbound trip and milk and cookies will be served. Santa will be waiting with special treats when the train arrives and will make the return trip return with the kids. There will be plenty time for pictures and fun on the way back. Space is very limited for this trip.
Willowbrook
Santa on the Willowbrook Polar Express
Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Time: 8:45 am to 12:55 pm
Trips departs: Hinsdale Metra Train Station
21 E. Hinsdale Avenue
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Sponsor: Willowbrook Park District
For information call the
Burr Ridge Park District (630) 920-1969
www.willowbrookil.org
Pre-registration required
Cost: $36 residents; $41 non-residents
Enjoy a holiday favorite—a Polar Express trip from the Hinsdale train station to the North Pole where everyone will enjoy a buffet breakfast. Here the children meet with Santa, have a picture taken and enjoy holiday crafts and entertainment plus they take home a gift. This program is done in cooperation with the Burr Ridge Park District. Note: This trip always sells out, please book early!
Worth
Santa on the Worth Polar Express
Friday, December 9th & Friday December 16th, 2011
Time: both days: 5:30 pm to 9 pm
Trip departs: Palos Heights Metra Train Station
11451 Southwest Highway
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Sponsor: Worth Park District
708) 448-7080
registration required
www.worthparkdistrict.org
Cost: Residents $8; non-residents $12
This trip is based on the book "Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg. It leaves from Palos Heights Metra Station and will head to the North Pole—Union Station Chicago, where the kids will meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus and have pictures taken. Book early, space is limited and the Worth Park District expects this trip to sell out. Registration opens November 1st, 2011 for Worth residents and November 8th for non-residents.
Please note—all of the above events are subject to change without notice