Children invited to 'Polar Express' reading and snack with Santa in Hendersonville

"The Polar Express," by Chris Van Allsburg.
"The Polar Express," by Chris Van Allsburg.

Smart Start Partnership for Children, an early childhood nonprofit serving families with young children in Henderson County, is partnering with Apple Valley Model Railroad Club in the Historic Train Depot in Hendersonville to host the inaugural event Polar Express Reading and Snack with Santa on Dec. 11.

“We are excited to bring a family friendly event, that also encourages early literacy to the community this year!” Smart Start Communications and Development Director Carrie Ann Chandler said in a news release.

There will be three readings of the classic holiday children’s book and attendees will receive a pre-packaged snack from Hendersonville Community Co-op.

Children and families can also look forward to a picture with Santa, a visit with Jingles the elf and a self-guided tour of the model trains housed in the Historic Train Depot.

Families will need to purchase tickets by calling 828-693-1580 or visiting www.smartstartpfc.org. The three sign up times are 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Each reading will be limited to 25 attendees to allow for social distancing.

Smart Start has the mission to support, educate, and advocate to build a strong foundation for the youngest members of our community. For more information, visit www.smartstartpfc.org.

This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Children invited to 'Polar Express' reading and snack with Santa in Hendersonville