Mystic Aquarium opens "The Polar Express 4-D Experience"

Why settle for 3-D when you could experience ... 4-D?

Mystic Aquarium offers full-sensory film-watching with a holiday twist. It is screening a 14-minute version of "The Polar Express" in its theater and adding new elements - kids will feel the wind and smell the scents.

The first day of "The Polar Express 4-D Experience" at Mystic Aquarium's 4-D Theater is Friday, and screenings continue through Jan. 6.

Friday's debut day boasts a special celebration, with an appearance by Santa, along with free hot chocolate and cookies. That all happens from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"The Polar Express 4-D Experience" is based on Chris Van Allsburg's book in which a questioning boy takes a train ride to the North Pole.

- KRISTINA DORSEY

"The Polar Express 4-D Experience," Friday through Jan. 6, Mystic Aquarium, Coogan Boulevard, Mystic; weekday schedule is 10:30-11 a.m., noon-1 p.m., 2-3 p.m., and 4-4:30 p.m.; weekend schedule is 10:15-4:30 p.m.; Nov. 23-25 and Dec. 27-Jan. 1 schedule is 9:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; tickets are included with Mystic Aquarium membership and the value ticket option, or can be purchased inside the aquarium for $6; mysticaquarium.org.