The Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso, Michigan, is cautioning holiday travelers about a rise in ticket scams targeting its North Pole Express excursions.
The annual event, a popular family attraction, features a festive 4½-hour steam train ride pulled by the Pere Marquette 1225 locomotive, transporting visitors from downtown Owosso to a Christmas-themed village in Ashley, Michigan. Tickets for the trip, released exclusively on the institute’s website in July, sold out within an hour, making the high-demand event a prime target for scammers.
Ticket Sales and Common Scams
The institute’s official Facebook post alerted fans to watch for fraudulent tickets sold online, particularly on social media. Scammers are reportedly attempting to sell fake tickets, causing concerns for would-be attendees. The Steam Railroading Institute emphasized that tickets are exclusively available on its website, specifically through its ticketing partner, FareHarbor.
The institute does not collaborate with any third-party ticket vendors. “If you choose to buy from a third party, do your research,” the post read, clarifying that only tickets directly purchased on their website are authentic.
How to Identify Authentic Tickets
The institute provided additional guidance on distinguishing genuine tickets from fakes:
- Ticket Name: Official tickets are branded as “North Pole Express,” not to be confused with any tickets labeled “Polar Express.”
- No Digital Tickets: Unlike typical events, the North Pole Express does not use QR codes or digital tickets. Souvenir tickets are only available on-site, the day of the event.
- No Mobile Entries: A phone displaying a ticket will not be accepted. Only the physical souvenir ticket is valid for entry.
The Steam Railroading Institute strongly advises potential buyers to verify the legitimacy of any tickets they plan to purchase from outside sources. For confirmation, they can contact the institute directly at 989-725-9464.
Purchasing Tickets Safely
For anyone still hoping to attend, the institute encourages checking its official website for potential ticket returns. Returned tickets are periodically posted for sale on www.michigansteamtrain.com, offering a safe avenue for acquiring last-minute tickets.
Tips to Avoid Ticket Scams
- Purchase Directly from the Source: Always buy tickets from the event’s official website or authorized ticketing partner.
- Avoid Social Media Deals: Many scammers operate on social platforms. Steer clear of purchasing tickets from these sources unless you can verify the seller’s credibility.
- Verify Ticket Format and Details: Make sure the ticket is labeled “North Pole Express” and not a similar name. Understand the official ticketing process—physical tickets are mandatory for this event.
- Contact Customer Service: If unsure about the ticket’s validity, call the institute directly to confirm.
By following these steps, event-goers can ensure a safe, festive experience aboard the North Pole Express.
