Metrolink Holiday Express Brings Festive Cheer to LA

Metrolink Holiday Express returns with Santa visits, carolers at four stations in December

2025-11-19, Moovit News Team

Metrolink Holiday Express Adds Four Stops

Metrolink's Holiday Express returns to Southern California with festive train events at four stations this December, transit officials said. The seasonal celebration brings Santa visits, carolers, and family activities to L.A. Union Station, San Bernardino-Downtown, Riverside-Downtown, and Simi Valley stations. Tickets are available now, though officials didn't specify pricing or capacity limits.

Annual Event Brings Holiday Tradition

The Holiday Express is a returning annual tradition for Metrolink, bringing seasonal entertainment to communities across the transit system's service area. Similar holiday train events operate at commuter rail agencies nationwide, including Metra in Chicago and Metro-North in New York, where they've become popular family traditions. Transit officials said the events aim to engage communities and celebrate the season with riders and their families. Specific details about how many years Metrolink has operated the Holiday Express weren't available.

Santa Visits and Activities Planned

Each Holiday Express event features visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live carolers performing seasonal music, and hands-on crafts for children, according to the transit agency. The events take place at station locations rather than aboard moving trains. Officials didn't provide specific times for each location or details about event duration. Families are encouraged to secure tickets in advance, though whether advance booking is required or events operate on a first-come basis wasn't specified.

December Events Scheduled

The Holiday Express visits L.A. Union Station on December 7, with events at San Bernardino-Downtown and Riverside-Downtown stations scheduled for December 14, transit officials said. The Simi Valley station hosts the final event December 21. Specific departure and return times for each location weren't provided. The agency announced the events November 19 through social media channels.