'Tis the season to be thinking it's too early to be 'tis-ing the season. Still...there is something about the holidays which, I think, is why many people rush into them.

It's hard not to get sentimental and nostalgic in November and December. I have fond memories of Breakfasts with Santa, Victorian Strolls, Christmas concerts, and making the trip to grandmother's house - which we still do.

But there is a new activity to add to the list of holiday traditions and it's based on a cherished children's Christmas story, The Polar Express.

I believe it was because of the book that my family hangs jingle bells on our mantle every Christmas.

I actually have yet to see the movie (though I did see part of it when trying out the new D-box seats at Rotterdam mall) but I'm sure Tom Hanks did justice to the conductor role.

Along with reading the book this season, families can ride an actual Polar Express at the Saratoga and North Creek Railway. Children are invited to board the train in the pjs, and all guests will enjoy cookies, cocoa, caroling, and a live interpretation of the classic holiday tale.

The hour-long rides start this Friday, Nov. 18 and prices range from $23 to $58. The round-trip rides depart from Saratoga Springs train station, 26 Station Ln, and go to a custom-built North Pole before returning to the initial station.

This is the inaugural year that the Saratoga & North Creek Railway is in operation and the first time this event will take place in the area.

Dates for this include Nov. 18-20, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 25-27, Dec.2-23, and Dec. 27-28. All dates have departures at 6pm and 8pm.

More information can be found here or call 877-726-RAIL.