Santa Claus is making his rounds in Chicago, bringing holiday cheer to commuters for the 34th consecutive year on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Holiday Train and Bus. According to a WGN-TV report, the festivities began on Friday at the Midway Orange Line Station, where families gathered, many participating in an annual tradition that invites both joy and a sense of community spirit.
This year's CTA Holiday Train is accompanied by the Holiday Bus, which has been decorated with a gingerbread house theme and highlights of Chicago's Christkindlmarket. The Holiday Bus will cover a total of 19 routes, an increase from previous years. Santa, secured in his sleigh, will be seen across all eight rail lines. "The Allstate CTA Holiday Fleet is one of CTA’s and Chicago’s most beloved and unique traditions, and I’m proud that our employees bring it to life each year," CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen told NBC Chicago. The initiative reflects the "creativity, commitment, and heart of CTA’s workforce."
The tradition, initiated in 1992 with a simple sign on an out-of-service Blue Line train, has evolved substantially. The CTA Holiday Train now delights children and adults alike as it has for over three decades. Beyond spreading holiday spirit, the initiative also includes a charitable aspect with CTA employees contributing to food baskets for local organizations. Jeannine Messina of the CTA highlighted the involvement in charity, noting in an interview with WGN-TV, "We still collect money from the employees to buy food baskets for organizations throughout the Chicagoland area to help them during the holiday season."
Commuters can track the Holiday Train's route with a special candy cane icon on the CTA Train Tracker, while the Holiday Bus can be followed with its dedicated tracker. However, given the popularity of the rides along with Santa, CTA has advised riders to be patient and prepared for potential delays. Those looking for a photo opportunity with Santa can check the full schedule to plan their festive rides. The Holiday Train will continue running till December 22, and the Holiday Bus till December 20, as per the information obtained by NBC Chicago.
For those residing outside of the Windy City's heart, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will also stop in the Chicago suburbs and various surrounding areas, offering musical performances and additional seasonal enjoyment. Regardless of their choice, passengers have a chance to participate in what has become a cherished part of Chicago's holiday landscape.
