Santa’s Village Amusement & Water Park (East Dundee, IL – U.S.A.) has announced the addition of a new semi-dark ride to the park. Starting this spring, guests at the park can go a journey to try to meet Santa Claus in North Pole Expedition.
The park describes North Pole Expedition as an “Immersive journey to the fabled North Pole”. A press-release by the park states: “This enchanting ride embodies the spirit of joy and adventure that defines our park, and we can’t wait for families to experience the magic firsthand.”
Guests who enter the North Pole Expedition will travel through the Candy Cane Garden, with oversized candy canes and sweet treats, the North Pole Post Office, where Santa’s elves are sorting all of the letters that were sent to Santa and the E.P.I.C. Bakery, where the festive holiday treats are made.
According to Santa’s Village’s general manager Brandon Thom, the ride start with an outdoor scene, followed by four dark ride scenes. “Personally, it’s one of the more unique attractions I’ve been a part of. I think our younger guests will absolutely love it.” he adds.
The ride system for North Pole Expedition was bought almost three years ago at the IAAPA Expo in 2021. The second-hand car ride system by SBF Visa had formally operated at Dinosaur Beach (Wildwood, NJ – U.S.A.) and served as the ride system for Escape from Dinosaur Beach. After Dinosaur Beach closed, the ride system was kept in storage for 24 years by rides sales firm IRM, before ultimately being sold to Santa’s Village.
Santa’s Village is currently finalising the attraction, which will open this summer. The park hopes to be able to announce an opening date soon. A brief promotional video was released with the announcement, which can be seen here.
