ROCKLAND — With the holiday season approaching faster than a speeding train, a group of community minded volunteers produced the annual Kiwanis Jingle Bell Express. In conjunction with Maine Eastern Railroad, the Jingle Bell Express is in its fourth season, having morphed from the popular Polar Express. The Kiwanis Club took over the railroad-themed event to ensure the continuation of what has become a Christmas tradition for Midcoast families.

The two-night, five-trip schedule aboard Maine Eastern Railroad culminated Saturday, Dec. 7, with three trips, preceded Dec. 6 with two trips.

In addition to Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus boarding the train, the trip included a visit to the North Pole, where riders got to observe the activities at Santa’s Workshop from inside the train. Train conductors read a story and every child received a bell to commemorate their journey. Families enjoyed Christmas carols on the ride back to the Rockland Depot, where cookies and hot cocoa awaited the disembarked passengers.

More than 100 volunteers are needed to produce the show, including approximately 50 elves on performance nights, according to Kiwanis President and Jingle Bell Express Co-Chair Katie Tarbox of Spruce Head. The rest of the volunteers included those in costume on the train, or who performed countless hours of behind-the-scenes functions like baking cookies, decorating, lighting and set up.

Committee Co-Chair Margie Kinney, of Thomaston, said the purpose of the Jingle Bell Express is to provide a unique experience and to create memories. She said that there are always new families who take the trip, as well as a lot of repeat customers. She noted that several of the younger volunteers have been involved for a long time.

“We’ve watched so many of them transition from wide-eyed riders sitting with moms and dads, to costumed entertainers dancing and playing at Santa’s Workshop,” she said.

While the local service club retains a portion of the ticket revenue for their charitable giving efforts, the rest goes to cover the cost of the train’s operation. The use of the North Pole location comes through the generosity of the Thomaston Historical Society.

The train was sold out completely for this year, a sign that this is indeed a welcome tradition during the holidays. Enjoy the gallery and call early next year to reserve your seat on the train.

Reach Chris Wolf at news@penbaypilot.com.