Metra's holiday trains will return in December. Here's how to catch them
Chicagoans can catch a ride on Metra’s beloved holiday trains soon, as the transit agency announced Wednesday it will run the trains on five lines this year.
The specially decorated train cars will run on the Metra Electric, BNSF, Milwaukee District West, Rock Island, and Union Pacific Northwest lines in December.
Riders can purchase advance round-trip tickets for $10 on Metra’s website starting at noon Nov. 17.
Here are the schedules for the holiday trains on each line:
- Dec. 6: Milwaukee District West and BNSF lines
- Dec. 13: Metra Electric, Rock Island, and UP Northwest lines
- Dec. 20: Metra Electric Line
“Our Holiday Trains have become an annual tradition for our riders and their families, and we are happy to be operating them again,” Jim Derwinski, Metra’s CEO and executive director, said in a statement. “It’s our way to spread a little holiday joy and thank our riders for making Metra part of their lives all year.”
The trains will feature holiday characters and treats. On the Metra Electric Line, the tickets also include a visit to the “North Pole winter wonderland” at Millennium Station.
The decorated train cars will also be used in regular service throughout December.