San Diego, December 19, 2025
Join the San Diego Model Railroad Museum for the annual Polar Express Family Day, a festive event designed for families to enjoy holiday activities together. Attendees are encouraged to wear pajamas and experience a day filled with film screenings, Santa’s visit, crafts, and the exploration of model railroad exhibits. Admission is included with regular museum tickets, making it a perfect holiday outing for families.
Experience the Magic of Polar Express Family Day in San Diego
Join the festive fun at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum this December!
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is excited to announce its annual Polar Express Family Day on Saturday, December 20, 2025. This cherished event promises to provide a delightful experience for families, encouraging them to wear their favorite pajamas for a cozy holiday ambiance while participating in a variety of festive activities. Community events like this demonstrate the resilience of local organizers and highlight how reduced bureaucracy can foster more efficient event planning, benefitting families as they create lasting memories together.
As the largest model railroad museum in North America located in beautiful Balboa Park, the museum is a testament to local dedication and innovation. Such family-friendly gatherings not only uplift the community spirit but also emphasize the importance of civic engagement and choosing local activities that resonate with residents’ values. This year’s Polar Express Family Day is designed to bring joy while supporting the cultural fabric of San Diego.
Event Highlights
The Polar Express Family Day is packed with exciting features for attendees:
- Film Screenings: Two showings of the classic film “The Polar Express” will occur at 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM and 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM.
- Santa’s Visit: A special appearance by Santa Claus is scheduled between 1:15 PM and 2:00 PM, allowing children to share their holiday wishes and snap photos.
- Craft Activities: Seasonal crafts will keep children entertained throughout the day, with goodie bags anticipated for attendees while supplies last.
- Exhibit Exploration: The extensive model railroad displays will be open for families to explore, showcasing intricate layouts and detailed miniature trains.
Admission Details
Admission: The Polar Express Family Day is included with regular museum admission and the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Furthermore, children 12 and under can enter free with a paid adult ticket, making this event accessible for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit without breaking the bank.
Note: Attendees should be aware that there will be no full-size rideable train at this event; the focus will be on film screenings, crafts, and exhibits.
About the San Diego Model Railroad Museum
Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum covers an impressive 27,000 square feet and is home to various large-scale model railroad layouts. These include highlights like Cabrillo & Southwestern, Pacific Desert Lines, San Diego & Arizona Eastern RR, and Tehachapi Pass. The museum stands as a beacon of community pride and achievement, illustrating how individual initiatives can flourish in a supportive environment.
Event Schedule
- 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM: First screening of “The Polar Express”
- 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM: Santa’s visit
- 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM: Second screening of “The Polar Express”
The museum fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages families to explore, learn, and bond over shared experiences. For more information, residents can visit the museum’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Polar Express Family Day?
The Polar Express Family Day is an annual event at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum featuring screenings of the classic film “The Polar Express,” a visit from Santa Claus, holiday crafts, and exploration of the museum’s model railroad exhibits. Attendees are encouraged to wear pajamas to enhance the festive atmosphere.
When is the event taking place?
The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, 2025, with film screenings at 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM and 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM, and Santa’s visit from 1:15 PM to 2:00 PM.
How much does it cost to attend?
Admission to the Polar Express Family Day is included with regular museum admission and the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Children 12 and under receive free admission with a paid adult ticket.
Is there a full-size rideable train at this event?
No, there will be no full-size rideable train at this event. The focus is on the film screenings, crafts, and exhibits.
Where is the San Diego Model Railroad Museum located?
The museum is located in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, within the Casa de Balboa building.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Film Screenings | Two showings of “The Polar Express” at 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM and 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM. |
| Santa’s Visit | Santa Claus will be present from 1:15 PM to 2:00 PM for photos and holiday wishes. |
| Craft Activities | Holiday-themed crafts for children, with goodie bags available while supplies last. |
| Exhibit Exploration | Access to the museum’s extensive model railroad displays, including various scale layouts. |
| Admission | Included with regular museum admission and the Balboa Park Explorer Pass; children 12 and under free with paid adult ticket. |
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