Holiday Express Opens This Week: Special Needs Night Friday

UPDATE: The much-anticipated Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm in Aurora, IL, is set to launch this week, bringing festive joy to families starting December 1. The Fox Valley Park District confirms the event kicks off with a Special Needs Night on Friday, December 1, featuring a lower-sensory environment tailored for inclusivity.

Opening night follows on Saturday, December 2, with festivities running from 5 to 8 p.m. on Fridays and 2 to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through December 21. Tickets are available for just $10 for guests aged one year and older. For more details, visit www.blackberryfarm.info/special-events/holiday-express/.

This year’s Holiday Express promises to deliver the cherished holiday train ride that has become a community tradition since 2006. Becky Harling, Recreation Superintendent at Blackberry Farm, emphasizes the park’s appeal, stating, “You don’t get to ride a holiday train just anywhere, and it’s a great time for families.”

Holiday Express features a variety of attractions, including festive displays, a new train photo opportunity, and Santa Claus himself, who will be available daily for photo sessions at the North Pole Oasis, also known as the Carriage Museum. Families can also enjoy the Candy Cane Village playground, the Sugar Plum Playland, and holiday stories inside the Gingerbread School House.

Harling noted that despite the event’s popularity, many still discover Blackberry Farm for the first time each year. “I do still think we are a hidden gem,” she remarked. “I think we’re still growing and people are finding us again.”

With multiple activities designed for children and families, attendees can navigate the park at their own pace without the stress of long lines. Harling reassured visitors, “I always feel like we’re busy, but we’re never crowded.”

As the holiday season kicks into high gear, the Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm is a must-visit event for those looking to create lasting memories. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a festive tradition that continues to enchant both locals and visitors alike.

Stay tuned for further updates as the event unfolds and be sure to secure your tickets early to join in the holiday magic!