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Holiday Train Show
November 17, 2012-January 13, 2013
Special Programs at the Holiday Train Show
All Aboard with Thomas and Friends at the Holiday Train Show
January 1-27, times vary.
Thomas and Friends™ are pulling into the station! Join Thomas and Driver Sam on a fun-filled, sing-along, mini-performance adventure by helping Thomas find his way from Knapford Station to Brendam Docks using teamwork, friendship, and discovery. Bring your camera; each mini-performance includes a photo op with Thomas after the mini-performance.
MasterCard® Budding Masters: Gingerbread Workshop
Saturday, January 12, 2-4 p.m.
Kids ages 8–12 learn to make a gingerbread house from NYC cake artist Liz Shim, owner and head baker of Eat Cake Be Merry, and explore the spices that go into this holiday favorite. Learn more at PRICELESS.COM/NY and get tickets for January 12.
Gingerbread Adventures
Dates and times vary.
Children explore the spices that make up a classic gingerbread recipe. Kids can step inside a child-sized gingerbread playhouse and also decorate a gingersnap cookie with frosting and candies. All ages will enjoy viewing a display of gingerbread houses made by New York City-area bakers.
The Little Engine That Could Puppet Show
Tuesdays–Thursdays, November 27–December 27 (except Tuesday, December 25), and Mondays, December 17 and 31, times vary.
This classic tale is brought to life in an exciting presentation by New York City puppet master Ralph Lee. The whole family can join the fun to get the determined train over the mountain!
Documentary Screening
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through December in the Ross Hall
A PBS documentary narrated by David Hartman explores how the Holiday Train Show goes from imagination to creation and features exclusive interviews with designer Paul Busse.
Past Programs
Bar Car Nights
Saturdays, December 8, 15, and 22, 7–9 p.m.
On these nights for grown-ups at the Holiday Train Show, leisurely view the wondrous exhibition while sipping a complimentary cocktail. Get into the holiday spirit under the magical glow of thousands of twinkling lights--a perfect holiday date night!
Opening Day at the Holiday Train Show
Saturday, November 17, 3-5:15 p.m.
Celebrate the season with renowned poets, view the lighting of a stunning conifer display by special guests, and join in an old-fashioned sing-along with the Westchester Chordsmen, featuring carols from many traditions.
Founding Sponsors: Victoria and Robert Zoellner
Major Sponsor: Alpine Associates Advisors
Presenting Sponsor: 
Generous support also provided by the Karen Katen Foundation
Additional support provided by Brooks Brothers
All-Garden Pass tickets for the Holiday Train Show start at $20 for Adults and $10 for Kids 2-12. See prices by date.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended as tickets do sell out. Tickets are timed and sold in 15 minute increments.
Holiday Train Show Hours
- Weekdays: Tuesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Weekends: 10 a.m.–7 p.m., including Friday, November 23 (day after Thanksgiving)
- Holiday Weeks (Monday, December 17–Tuesday, January 1): 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Early closings: December 14 and 24; 3 p.m.
- Closed: November 22 (Thanksgiving) and December 25 (Christmas)
Tips to Enhance Your Visit
- Holiday Weeks (December 17–January 1) are traditionally the busiest times at the show. Opt for days before or after that period.
- Our timed-ticket system helps visitor flow through the show. Purchase tickets online to select your date and time.
- Avoid lines at the gate by purchasing your tickets online and printing them yourself at home.
- Traveling with little ones? Strollers cannot be taken into the Conservatory, so please plan accordingly.
About the Designer
Paul Busse and his team at Applied Imagination have collaborated with the Garden since the inception of the Holiday Train Show in 1992. The collection now numbers more than 140 replicas!
Hours
Tuesday - Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Closed most Mondays, Thanksgiving & Christmas Day.
Please confirm hours on the day of your visit by calling 718.817.8700.
Directions
Metro-North Railroad
Take the Metro-North Harlem local line to Botanical Garden Station.
Membership
By becoming a Member today, you'll not only get a whole year's worth of benefits, you'll get the knowledge that you are helping the Garden's renowned horticulture, science, and education programs to flourish.