The days may be short in New Hampshire this time of year, but it’s also the time of year when Christmas magic abounds. One of the most magical holiday experiences in New Hampshire is the Journey to the North Pole. This New Hampshire Polar Express Train ride will give you a truly unforgettable experience. Here’s why everyone in the state needs to experience this ride at least once, beginning with rides this weekend.

We originally published this article in 2016, but we’ve updated it with all the latest details for 2018!

It turns out that The Polar Express, the beloved magical Christmas train, comes right here to New Hampshire.

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The New Hampshire Polar Express Train Ride is better known as the Journey to the North Pole, and it is an experience that everyone in New Hampshire needs to have at least once.

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Pajama-clad children and adults can board the train in North Conway or Lincoln. Once on board you’ll receive hot chocolate from an army of holiday volunteers.

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And after a short ride, you’ll be transported, right to the North Pole.

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When you arrive, elves will guide you off the Polar Express and into the North Pole theater.

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There, you’re able to meet the big guy himself: Santa Claus.

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In the theater, kids will love listening to dramatic readings and reenactments of “Twas The Night Before Christmas” and other holiday favorites.

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And, of course, scenes from the Polar Express.

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In fact, if you’re lucky you may even get a special bell, the one whose magical ring will forever remind you of Christmas magic.

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At the North Pole you can post letters to Santa and the elves will make sure that he receives your wishes.

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Journey to the North Pole, the New Hampshire Polar Express Train Ride, is made even more magical when you realize that it is run by volunteers and supports an important cause.

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The funds raised from the train rides benefit Believe in Books Literacy Foundation, a New Hampshire based non-profit that encourages education and literacy, especially in Northern New Hampshire.

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The joyous experience that also gives back to education and teaches children to love books makes the Journey to the North Pole an even more magical experience.

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Journey to the North Pole departs from the North Conway and Lincoln stations on December 7th, 8th, and 9th; 14th, 15th, and 16th, and 21st, 22nd, and 23rd. and Lincoln. There’s an addition departure from North Conway on December 20th as well. Afternoon departures are at 4:30 p.m.; evening trains leave at 6:30 p.m..

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For more information or to buy tickets, visit the website. Get more information on Believe in Books here.

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