
After a challenging year, the arrival of Christmas feels like a much-needed breath of fresh air. And in true holiday spirit, Chicago is stepping up to make sure no one forgets the magic of the season. The Windy City is embracing the festive cheer with its long-standing tradition: the Allstate CTA Holiday Fleet, affectionately known as the Christmas train.
For 33 years, this dazzling train has been spreading holiday joy across the city, delighting passengers with its brilliant lights, colorful decorations, and a festive atmosphere that can make even the grumpiest commuter crack a smile. This year, Chicago has gone the extra mile by decking out not just the trains but also a holiday bus, bringing Christmas spirit to the streets and the tracks alike.
TikTok is awash with videos capturing the fleet in all its glory, showcasing everything from delighted commuters to aerial shots of the brilliantly lit transport. These glimpses of joy are lifting spirits far beyond Chicago, giving Christmas lovers across the globe a reason to smile.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, the Holiday Fleet serves a deeper purpose. Much like Santa’s sleigh, the train delivers food baskets and donations to community organizations throughout the city. This year alone, it’s expected to distribute around 400 baskets filled with all the essentials for a complete holiday meal, including ham, vegetables, macaroni and cheese, and dessert.
Adding to the magic, the train features an open-air section where Santa Claus himself greets passengers, offering photo opportunities and waves to children (and adults!) eager to meet him. It’s a heartwarming touch that ensures even families facing a tough year can experience the wonder of the holidays.
Chicago’s Christmas train is more than a festive ride; it’s a symbol of hope and generosity, reminding everyone of the season’s true meaning. In a year where we could all use a little extra joy, the Allstate CTA Holiday Fleet is delivering in style—food baskets, reindeer, and all.