photos by Todd Newcomer

Pajamas were all the rage at the D&SNGRR train depot Saturday evening as both parents and children alike waited anxiously for the arrival of the Polar Express. The classic childrens book and movie came to life when the train engine roared into the station just as the sun set and the temperatures dropped. Hot chocolate was the first order of business as the train passengers settled into their seats. The story of the Polar Express resonated through the loud speakers as the locomotive made its way toward the North Pole. After the story concluded and the Christmas carols ended, Santa Claus emerged alongside the railroad in a flurry of excitement as the train finally arrived at the North Pole.
Riley Amos, 3, watches the arrival of the Polar Express from atop his father's shoulders Saturday night at the train depot. Chief Conductor Rich Millard guarantees a safe return of the Polar Express as the train returns to the depot. Tammie Hovet shows the book that created the event,The Polar Express, to the children who were anxiously awaiting Santa Claus and the North Pole . Chase Noonan shows off the reindeer bell given to him by Santa as the Polar Express makes its return trip from the North Pole. Santa Claus makes his way through the train cars of the Polar Express handing out reindeer bells to all the children. Ben Barker makes his way through a train car punching tickets as the ride to the North Pole gets under way. Harrison Quick, 8, wipes away the condensation on the window in anticipation of the train's arrival at the North Pole.