Christmas at SeaWorld As fall fades to winter and the holidays are upon us, guests will climb aboard The Polar Express

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Christmas at SeaWorld

As fall fades to winter and the holidays are upon us, guests will climb aboard The Polar Express Experience as it rolls into SeaWorld this holiday season beginning Nov. 14, 2008 and continuing through Jan. 4, 2009. SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into the fabled Santa Town taking guests on a magical trip to the North Pole.

Across the way, once the evening stars appear, families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show: "Shamu Christmas Miracles." This very special showing runs nightly beginning Nov. 12 and continues through Dec. 30, 2008. Shamu Stadium will illuminate with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols adored and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season.

While strolling around SeaWorld's lake or through The Waterfront's holiday-themed array of gift shops and restaurants, families can wander along a winter scene as glistening snow flurries fill the air. Guests can also experience "Christmastide" - a spectacular holiday fountain show where jewels of water and light adorn the night and dance to the merry musical sounds of Christmas. "Christmastide" begins Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 25, 2008.

Igniting the spirit of the season is the "Makahiki Christmas Luau," a South Seas-style festive celebration including succulent island cuisine keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. Joyful songs of the season are reinterpreted with Polynesian rhythms, music and dance during this festive holiday celebration. "Makahiki Christmas Luau" begins Nov. 12, 2008 and continues through Jan. 4, 2009 (except Dec. 25). Park admission is not required. Prices are $46.00 plus tax for adults and $29.00 plus tax for children (ages 3-9)

Families can ring in the New Year at SeaWorld on Dec. 31 with a musical extravaganza including the best in pop, Latin and swing music. At the stroke of midnight, the evening sky will shine even brighter with a vibrant fireworks show to celebrate the festivities. For more information, guests may visit SeaWorld.com or call 1(888) 800-5447.

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posted by Dewayne Bevil

The Polar Express Experience, which debuted last year at SeaWorld Orlando, makes a return trip for the upcoming holiday season, taking over the Wild Arctic simulator beginning Nov. 14. The attraction is based on the animated movie (featuring the voice of Tom Hanks) and will run through Jan. 4, 2009.

Another of SeaWorld's holiday offerings will be "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles," a show that combines lights, candles, carols and whales. It debuts Nov. 12 and ends Dec. 30. Also returning that day is "Christmastide," a holiday fountain show that will continue through Dec. 25.

All of the above are included in regular theme-park admission.

SeaWorld's Makahiki Christmas Luau will be available from Nov. 12 to Jan. 4 (with the exception of Dec. 25). It features island cuisine and ancient Pacific Island traditions. It's $46 general, $29 for ages 3-9. Theme park admission is not required for the Luau.