UPDATE: The beloved CTA holiday train is set to roll back into Chicago starting November 28, 2023, just in time for the festive season! This year marks the 34th year of this cherished tradition, which will launch from the Midway Orange Line station the day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday.
In addition, the holiday bus will hit the streets beginning November 25, 2023, bringing even more festive cheer to the city. The CTA excitedly announced these return dates on Monday, igniting anticipation among residents and visitors alike.
This year’s holiday train features six beautifully decorated passenger cars and a special open flatcar where Santa will greet passengers alongside his sleigh. Limited-time photo opportunities with Santa will be available on select train runs, making this a perfect outing for families looking to capture memorable holiday moments.
The holiday bus, wrapped in a festive design showcasing the famous Christkindlmarket, features a whimsical gingerbread house interior, complete with Santa’s chair at the rear. The excitement is palpable as the bus will also be a sight to behold, flying reindeer adorning its exterior.
The holiday train will continue its festive journey through December 22, 2023, concluding at the Yellow Line in Skokie, while the holiday bus will operate until December 20, 2023. For those eager to plan their trips, the CTA provides real-time tracking of both the holiday train and bus, indicated by a candy cane icon in the CTA Train Tracker.
The CTA holiday train’s journey began in 1992 with a simple “season’s greetings” sign on an out-of-service train delivering food baskets to local charities. This year, the agency will continue that spirit by distributing 400 food baskets to community organizations, showcasing the ongoing commitment to giving back during the holiday season.
The CTA stated in a release, “Over the years, this holiday tradition has evolved from its modest and humble beginnings to a spectacular, joyous sight to see – in daytime or nighttime.” As the train glides into each station, Santa will wave to excited riders, ensuring that the magic of the holidays is felt throughout the city.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate the season! Plan your visit to see the holiday train and bus, and share the joy with family and friends. For detailed schedules and routes, check the CTA’s official website.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach these festive launch dates!
