Winter Wonderland: Carson City, Nevada

Kids both young and old, and loved ones from near and far can find the magic of the holiday season in Carson City, Nevada. Set against the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, Carson City is a perfect destination where you can kick your Yuletide cheer into high gear!

The Polar Express Train brings “The Polar Express” to life. The Polar Express will transport passengers beginning Thursday, Nov. 17 through Friday, Dec. 23. Wear your favorite pajamas, sing carols, and enjoy hot chocolate while you travel along the historic V&T Railway. Santa himself visits each rail car and gifts a keepsake silver bell to every child. Tickets start at $60-80 for two people, plus a $10 historical fee and can be purchased at VTRailway.com/polar-express.

Jolly Old Saint Nick also spreads cheer at the Nevada State Railroad Museum aboard the Santa Train. These special train rides will be offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18. Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at the museum.

You’ll really feel like you’re stepping into a Hallmark holiday movie during the Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights, the annual state tree lighting and illumination of the Capitol Ground. Twinkling lights take over the town during this event, which will be Friday, Dec. 2 in front of the Nevada State Capitol Building. The Silver Saddle Ranch also hosts a dazzling display of lights and decorations during the Homestead Holidays event. Held Friday, Dec. 9 through Sunday, Dec. 11, you can take photos with Santa and enjoy live music, wagon rides, a craft market, and more.

Find all the holiday happenings, attractions, Yuletide cheer and more at VisitCarsonCity.com.