There was an express (a trolley bus) that visitors rode on before entering.
Pilot Club of Cochran's Daphne Jones said over 200 people attended the first night of the Winter Wonderland Express, the Christmas-themed event being done in conjunction with Princesses with a Purpose. "That was pretty good for a school night," she added. Crowds have increased since then. Jones said "I think the word got out."
One of the many Christmas-themed decorations outside.
Hundreds ventured to the Heartland Express building on Lucas Road as the third of four Winter Wonderland Expres events took place. On the outside there were various Christmas displays. A trolley bus (seen last week in the Christmas parade) carried people around the grounds, speaking about the true meaning of Christmas.
Santa was there to let children share what they wanted for Christmas and to simply take up time with the children.
Once the tour was done, guests entered the building. Inside they found a cavalcade of Christmas-themed lights and decorations, a place to visit with Santa, as well as character stations for the cast members of PWAP. Children could visit with Santa or Mrs. Claus as well as get their photo taken with some of their favorite characters.
Smiles for pictures were the order of the evening.
Though supposed to close at 8, there were still excited children exploring the area and getting hugs from princesses at 8:25. The Winter Wonderland Express will have its final boarding call Saturday from 6-8 pm. It's located at 256 Lucas Road.
Makaila Bowen shows the design she painted on a child's cheek.
What's a visit with a princess without a hug afterwards?
Even the hard-hearted Grinch could be seen in the Christmas spirit.