Polar Express Rides, 'Treasured Holiday Tradition,' Canceled Amid COVID-19

Polar Express train rides, a “treasured holiday tradition” for many Northeast Ohioans, are canceled for the rest of the season as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

“As we look to an uncertain future with respect to this situation, CVSR must make this decision now,” President and CEO Joe Mazur said in a Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad news release. The annual train ride “is one of Northeast Ohio’s most treasured holiday traditions. However, the health and wellbeing of our customers, volunteers, community and staff come first.”

The annual Polar Express train rides, the biggest fundraiser for the nonprofit Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, were inspired by the 2004 Robert Zemeckis film starring Tom Hanks.

“Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole,” according to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. “Passengers are entertained by a reading of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg and upon arrival at the North Pole, elves are eagerly waving to families as they prepare for the big day. On the way back home Santa greets guests and takes photos.”

Customers will receive refunds for canceled rides from Thursday (November 19) through December 20. They may also choose to donate the cost of the tickets to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or ask for a gift card, according to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad announcement Wednesday (November 18).

The Ohio Department of Health reported more than 312,400 total cases statewide as of Tuesday (November 17), the latest data available.

Photo: Getty Images