Watson's Christmas Express

All Aboard! Watson's Christmas Express Returns to O.J. Watson Park This Holiday Season!

The holiday magic is rolling back into O.J. Watson Park! Wichita Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the return of Watson's Christmas Express, bringing festive family fun, twinkling lights, train rides, and a special visit with Santa Claus! From November 28 through December 20, 2026, families are invited to climb aboard for a magical journey to the North Pole on select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Whether you're looking for the complete holiday experience or want to create your own festive adventure, Watson's Christmas Express offers two ways to celebrate the season!

VIP Experience – The Ultimate Holiday Adventure!
Make unforgettable holiday memories with the VIP Package! This all-inclusive experience is filled with Christmas cheer from beginning to end.
Guests will enjoy a special reading of Chris Van Allsburg's The Polar Express, create a festive craft, and board the Watson Park train for a magical journey to the North Pole. Once there, children will meet Santa Claus and receive a special gift! The fun continues around the campfire with delicious s'mores, unlimited hot chocolate, and holiday sing-alongs. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas to make the experience even more magical!

VIP Package Pricing:
Wichita Residents: $20 per person
Non-Residents: $25 per person
Ages 2 and older
Advance registration required: www.wichita.gov/656/Watsons-Christmas-Express
Adults must attend and register individually along with their children. Space is limited, so families are encouraged to reserve their preferred date and time early.

General Admission – Create Your Own Christmas Magic!
Looking for a little holiday fun without advance registration? General admission lets families build their own festive experience with à la carte activities!
General Admission Activities:
$15 per person: Train ride to the North Pole to visit Santa
$5 per person: One s'more and unlimited hot chocolate
General admission is available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on event dates. No advance registration is required, and activities are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Event Dates & Times
November 28–December 20, 2026
November: 28, 29
December: 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20

VIP Experience Start Times:
5 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
6 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
7 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Each VIP experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, with the final session ending at 8:45 p.m.

Make Watson's Christmas Express Part of Your Holiday Tradition! There's nothing quite like seeing the magic of Christmas through a child's eyes! From the excitement of boarding the train to meeting Santa at the North Pole, Watson's Christmas Express is a holiday tradition filled with laughter, wonder, and memories that last a lifetime. Gather your family, bundle up, and join Wichita Parks & Recreation for a magical holiday adventure at O.J. Watson Park!

All aboard for Christmas cheer!