Press

Media Contact: 
JP O’Hare 
(518) 474-1201 
Press@nysed.gov 
www.nysed.gov

The New York State Museum and New York State Library invite families to embark on a heartwarming holiday journey on December 8, 2024, as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of the beloved film, The Polar Express. Join us for “All Aboard for a Polar Express Adventure!”—a festive day packed with train-themed activities, hands-on crafts, and a special screening of the iconic movie.

Scheduled to coincide with the popular New York State Tree Lighting and Fireworks Festival at the Empire State Plaza, this event is the perfect way to kick off a full day of holiday cheer in Albany. All activities, except for the carousel rides, will take place on the first floor of the State Museum, ensuring a seamless and joyful experience for all attendees.

Event Highlights:

• Ride the Carousel: Enjoy a magical ride on the Museum's historic carousel and make unforgettable holiday memories.
• Discover Railroad History: Explore captivating railroad-themed displays from the New York State Library’s collections, featuring treasures from the Jack Shufelt Collection.
• Get Creative: Unleash your creativity, and get into the holiday spirit with a fun and festive craft activity from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Meet Santa Claus: The jolly man himself will make a special appearance to spread joy and holiday cheer!
• The Polar Express Screening: Experience the magic of this beloved holiday classic in the Huxley Theater at 1:00 p.m.

New York State Librarian Lauren Moore said, “The holiday season and the 20th anniversary of The Polar Express provide a wonderful opportunity for visitors to delve into our state’s rich railroad history through the fascinating world of literature and archival treasures. We invite families to explore the Library’s historic collections while creating magical holiday memories together.”

New York State Museum Director of Community Engagement & Education Kathryn Weller said, “We’re thrilled to partner with the New York State Library to bring this festive celebration to life. From carousel rides to crafts and the beloved The Polar Express, this event has something for everyone. It’s a true honor to be part of our State’s holiday traditions and to welcome families for a day of seasonal magic and fun.” 

For more information on “All Aboard for a Polar Express Adventure” please visit: All Aboard for a Polar Express Adventure!

About the Cultural Education Center   

Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 480 million years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.  

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.    

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.  

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.