Carson City, NV…A month from its inaugural ride, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ is on its way to selling out with over 50 percent of tickets sold for the 2016 season. Secure tickets now to ensure children have a chance to experience holiday magic firsthand with rides scheduled Nov. 17 – Dec. 23 on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. (www.vtrailway.com)

As a testament to the popularity of THE POLAR EXPRESS™, the train ride has sold out the previous five years. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ runs Thursday-Sunday at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. with special final trips during the week of Christmas.

Families traveling from outside of the area can turn their rides into a weekend of exploration in Carson City. V&T Railroad’s partners offer discounted room rates to those who ride THE POLAR EXPRESS™ and book their stay to coincide with the day of their ride. Lodging packages are available from the Plaza Hotel and Event Center (www.carsoncityplaza.com) and the Wyndham Garden Carson City Max Casino (www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham-garden/carson-city-nevada/wyndham-garden-carson-city/overview).

Families aboard the holiday train can relive the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ in a one-hour journey filled with music, songs and a cast of characters all the way to the North Pole. Once aboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along with the classic children’s book “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa Claus and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Elves in each train car lead families in Christmas carol favorites on the return to Carson City.

Coupled with quality attractions and accommodations in Carson City, the holiday season has officially begun for families in Northern California and Nevada. VIP tickets are $82 for adults and $72 for children 2-12 – free for children under 2 who sit on a lap. Coach tickets are $46 for adults and $36 for children.

The boarding area at the Carson City Depot, Eastgate Siding Road offers indoor heated areas where riders can take photos with Santa Claus and purchase holiday souvenirs. Every ticket includes hot chocolate, cookies, entertainment, a reading of “The Polar Express,” and a keepsake silver bell that preserves the special memories.

Arrival at the station 30 minutes prior to departure is recommended. The V&T’s engine and holiday decorated passenger cars leave the Carson City Eastgate Depot (seven miles east of downtown Carson City) and travel nearly two miles before stopping at Santa’s North Pole retreat.

To purchase tickets, call 877-724-5007 or 775-291-0208 or visit www.vtrailway.com. Information is also available at www.polarexpressride.com.