KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Every year, a train takes off for a festive journey around Knoxville and the surrounding area. It may not be the Polar Express, but the idea is similar and it still offers families a chance to have plenty of holiday fun.
The Christmas Lantern Express is an annual train ride that starts from a depot near the University Commons. It's otherwise known as the Three Rivers Rambler and it takes families on a trip to see historical sites in the area before showing them the "Three Rivers Trestle" — an area where the French Broad and Holston Rivers join to form the Tennessee River.
Families who peek out the window can spot farmland and the area where Knoxville was first settled. Staff also dress for the occasion and can answer questions children and families may have about the area's history.
Families can enjoy holiday treats, storytime with well-known readers and a visit with Santa Claus during the ride. The train is also specially decorated for the holidays, transporting families into a Christmas wonderland as they spend around two hours traveling through the Knoxville area.
Tickets sold out for the Friday and Saturday rides, according to organizers. The ride spans around 11 miles.