SeaWorld® The Polar Express Experience

This holiday season, guests are invited to jump aboard The Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld for a magical trip to the North Pole. Debuting Nov. 13, 2009 and continuing through Jan. 3, 2010, SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into a thrilling expedition to the fabled Santa Town.

The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg.  

This heartwarming adventure begins with a three-minute preshow telling the story of a young boy lying awake on Christmas Eve, just before midnight. Straining to listen for the elusive sound of ringing bells aboard Santa's sleigh, the boy is jolted out of bed from the thunderous roar of The Polar Express arriving to take him on a fascinating adventure to the North Pole. Guests then embark upon that same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience. Recreating classic scenes from the movie in a multi-sensory experience, The Polar Express Experience immerses guests with lighting, scent, sound and motion to transport them to the North Pole ... and into the spirit of the season.

When guests arrive at their destination, they step off the train and into the movie itself. Temperatures drop and holiday spirits soar as the travelers arrive at the frozen North Pole, complete with towering Christmas tree, gift-laden sleigh, village decor and Santa himself. The journey continues as guests also encounter other inhabitants of the North Pole -- the animals themselves -- including graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses.

Stunning Shows

In addition to this stellar holiday attraction, SeaWorld also offers an array of festive shows and seasonal additions. The exact schedule has not yet been announced.   In 2008, however, guests could join Shamu for the holidays during "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This captivating show helps guests celebrate the holiday season as a time filled with hope and peace and just possibly, miracles. The 22-minute production came to life daily through Dec. 25 at Shamu Stadium.

Guests may also witness a winter wonder as snow flurries descend from up above, and jewels of water and light adorn the night during the "Christmastide" holiday fountain show -- a seasonal spectacular where water seemingly dances to the beat of Christmas music through Dec. 25.

"Mistify," a nighttime finale Dec. 26 - 30, took place on SeaWorld's center lake and features larger-than-life marine creatures on 60-foot mist screens, 100-foot fountains, flames on water and dazzling fireworks.

Families enjoyed  strolling through the Waterfront's array of gift shops and restaurants all while listening to the joyful tunes of singers, musical quartets and the "Sizzlin' Pianos" show that ignite the spirit of the season.

Holiday Festivities

As the sun sets over the harbor, the Seafire Inn celebrates the Christmas season Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau. Enjoy the festive celebration of authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances including a special rendition of "O Holy Night". The excitement is non-stop in this festive, fiery show that celebrates man’s co-existence with the earth and sea. Nightly mid Nov.  - early Jan. Advance reservations can be made by calling 1-800-327-2420. 

Explore other theme park events...  

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you have to stay the night!  Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season.  In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.