The Polar Express is back in Northern Arizona for its 24th season [Video]

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (AZFamily) — From storybook to the big screen, The Polar Express has been a staple in children’s Christmas since 1985.

The Grand Canyon Railway has been bringing the story to life for 24 years with its Polar Express experience.

The railway’s communication manager Sam Langner said the experience is immersive and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

“It’s based on the book and the movie by Van Allsburg,” Langner said. “When you get on board it’s everything you expect and more. You have chief characters, the conductor, there’s hot chocolate, cookies.”

Joel Elis is one of the conductors who brings the magic of Polar Express to life. He has been with the railway for a year, and this is his first Polar Express season.

“It’s that magical age between three and five or six, and you can see it in their eyes and that’s what I enjoy about it,” Elis said.

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