Dashing through the snow and over the rail lines they go, Santa and his reindeer began their annual visit to Chicago November 23, on the CTA Holiday Train—now in its 21st year. The CTA Holiday Train is a festive and one-of-a-kind tradition that’s unique to Chicago and is a fun way to enjoy the city during the holiday season.

Santa and his helpers will travel in his sleigh on an open flat car that is pulled by a six-car CTA train. Customers are invited to ride inside the cars, which are decorated with multi-colored lights, bows and garland and feature holiday music.

The Holiday Train’s first destination is the Green Line. The train will travel along all CTA rail lines throughout November and December as part of its regular rail service and normal CTA fares apply. Schedules for each individual line are listed below and are subject to change.

Each year CTA staff work with Santa to ensure customers enjoy their ride on the Holiday Train. CTA personnel also generously donate cash to buy and prepare food baskets for needy families that are distributed each year to selected community groups.