Polar Express Storytime 2023

While many people think it is too early for Christmas music on the radio, many would agree it is NEVER too early to prepare for Polar Express Storytime! 

One of the most beloved Bowling Green Christmas traditions is visiting the Historic RailPark & Train Museum for Polar Express Storytime. Every December, hundreds of families come dressed in their pajamas to board the train and listen to the story of the Polar Express! This event is a free experience, where we gather in a cozy, festive ambiance to kick off the start of the Christmas season with one of the most timeless holiday tales. 

This year’s Storytime will take place on the vintage, restored Duncan Hines Dining Car. Our guests will get to hear the story of Polar Express while sitting on a railcar in their pajamas just like the characters in Chris Van Allsburg’s book. In the Grand Lobby of the Depot, there will be hot chocolate and delicious treats to enjoy. Families are also welcome to take pictures at our Christmas-themed photo booth.  

The Polar Express journeys to the North Pole on the night of Christmas Eve for one child to receive the first gift of Christmas… So it is only fitting that Santa makes an appearance at Polar Express Storytime!  Our guests will exit through our Presidential Railcar and have a brief opportunity to meet Santa. At the end of the story, each child receives a bell- part of the magical experience at the Depot they will always remember.  

The Polar Express is one of the most treasured Christmas Movies, centered around a train ride. Hosting Polar Express Storytime for over 20 years means that there is now a second generation coming and sharing this holiday tradition. Oftentimes this is children’s first introduction to the magic of trains and helps to build a lifetime love of this mode of transportation, thus keeping it alive! We offer this as a free community event, thanks to our sponsors, staff, and volunteers, to help grow that love of trains and be a part of families’ Christmas traditions.

Tickets are FREE to the community but must be registered in advance. Our RailPark Members get advance ticket registration, as their regular contributions to the nonprofit’s efforts make events like this possible. See the dates below for ticket registration!

Checking out the RailPark from out of town? Make sure you stay at a property from  Three Springs Hospitality!

Three Springs Hospitality aims to provide exceptional hospitality and personalized service with attention to growing our company, our people, and our partners. Their reputation as a respected developer and preferred manager yields opportunities to own and manage select-service hotels affiliated with highly regarded brands such as Hampton Inn by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express AN IHG Hotel, Candlewood Suites AN IHG Hotel, and Avid AN IHG Hotel.