Oh what fun it is to ride and sing on the annual CTA Holiday Train, which goes into service November 28 – the Friday after Thanksgiving. Now in its 23rd year, the CTA invites daily and new customers to come out and enjoy this glittering and glowing holiday tradition that’s unique to Chicago and a fun way to enjoy the city and its neighborhoods.
Dashing through the snow on an open flatbed car, Santa and his reindeer will travel along all eight rail lines as part of a six-car train that is decked inside and out with thousands of multi-colored lights, garland, bows and festive winter scenes. Customers are invited to take a ride in cinnamon-scented rail cars with holiday music playing in the background.
The first rail line Santa will visit is the Green Line, starting at the Harlem/Lake terminal. The train will travel all rail lines through late December as part of regular rail service. Normal CTA fares apply. Schedules for each rail line are provided below and are subject to change:
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Rail Line
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Date(s)
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Green Line
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November 28-29 & December 2
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Brown/Orange Lines
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December 3-6
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Pink Line
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December 9 & 10
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Blue Line
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December 11-13
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Red Line
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December 16, 18 & 22
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Purple Line Express
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December 17 & 19
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Red/Purple Lines
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December 20
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Yellow Line
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December 23
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Use CTA Train Tracker at rail stations and on transit apps to locate the whereabouts of Santa and the Holiday Train, which will be indicated with a candy cane next to its arrival time information.
CTA staff work with Santa to ensure that customers of all ages have an opportunity to see and take part in this annual tradition. To make the most of your experience and help with planning, the CTA provides helpful tips on the Holiday Train webpage at transitchicago.com/holidaytrain. Detailed timetables will also be posted to this page each week.
For more information about all other CTA routes and schedules, call 312-836-7000 or visit transitchicago.com.
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