The magic of Christmas isn’t the things tucked under the Christmas tree. It is the collection of memories, moments and time together that children remember the most and talk about for years to come. Kick off the holiday season with an event that train aficionados, children, and the young-at-heart will all love. The popular North Pole Express is back for another Christmas season at the Railway Museum of British Columbia in Squamish. This must-do holiday experience is perfect for the whole family and can easily be a full day of making memories.
Begin your experience aboard the North Pole Express train, led by a 1950s vintage FP9A passenger locomotive. The 50-minute train ride will be filled with cookies and Christmas caroling. Following the magical train experience, riders will disembark at the North Pole, conveniently located inside the Railway Museum of BC’s giant roundhouse, for a fully immersive and magical experience. The Roundhouse will be transformed into a winter wonderland where children can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for a family photograph, ride the mini train through a winter wonderland, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and take part in a multitude of Christmas-themed activities and crafts. There are 4 (and sometimes 5) train departures per day, with the Saturday evening Night Departure being one of the most popular times. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for a true “North Pole Express” feel, or dress up in their favourite Christmas-themed outfits to get in the holiday spirit! Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, though, as the walk between the parking lot and the train can be icy.
This year, visitors can purchase tickets individually for Bronze Coach Class, Silver Coach Class, and Gold First Class seats. With the purchase of Gold First Class seats, each person will receive a special 2025 collectible mug, plus platform loading and tables at each set of seats. Looking for a more exclusive experience? The Alberta Private Coach seats up to 15 people and can be booked by contacting Railway Museum of BC directly. The North Pole Express is an incredibly popular holiday event, and tickets sell out fast, especially for the evening ride.
Important information for your visit to the North Pole Express:
- Arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
- Check-in closes 15 minutes prior to departure.
- Parking is FREE!
- Ensure you have appropriate tires to travel on the Sea to Sky Highway (find out the regulations here)
Ride the North Pole Express:
Dates: November 29 & 30, December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, or 4:00 PM; plus a 6:00 PM train every Saturday.
Venue: Railway Museum of British Columbia
Address: 39645 Government Road, Squamish
Website: wcra.org
