SPENCER — The N.C. Transportation Museum’s popular Polar Express train ride will return Nov. 15, beginning its journey to the North Pole.

The story comes to life when the train departs Barber Junction Depot at the museum for a 70-minute round-trip journey.

Sounds of the soundtrack of the train’s namesake movie will allow passengers to relive the story as they are whisked away, the museum said in a news release.

Once onboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along with the classic children’s book “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg.

Santa and his helpers will greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train. Each child will be given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell, the news release said. Chefs aboard each car will lead passengers in singing Christmas carols on the ride back to the Transportation Museum.

The journey begins Nov. 15 and runs through Dec. 22 on select dates.

Dates, fares and excursion times are available by calling 704-469-5231 or visiting www.nctrans.org.

Tickets for children ages 2-11 range from $32 to $42. Adult tickets range from $38 to $48. The price depends on the date and class of service. Parlor class and first-class seating are sold out.

Families are encouraged to wear pajamas for the ride.