Chicago’s own version of the Polar Express is racing back into the station next month!
The 2026 Metra Holiday Train schedule is officially here and advance tickets go on sale next week.
Here’s everything to know and where to get your passes before they sell out.
Sneak peek at the 2026 Metra Holiday Train schedule
The massively popular Metra Holiday Train will return for its 2026 edition beginning Saturday, December 5.
The train will run across select lines on 4 separate dates. Here’s the schedule breakdown:
- Dec. 5
- BNSF
- Milwaukee District North
- Rock Island
- Dec 12
- Metra Electric
- UP Northwest
- Dec. 13
- Metra Electric
- Dec. 19
- Metra Electric
- UP North
On the December 12, 13, and 19 runs, families can take the holiday train to Millennium Station for a winter wonderland celebration featuring games, festive treats, visits with Santa, and other holiday activities.
Click here for the full station-by-station schedule for each train line.
Grab your tickets ahead of time
Advance tickets for the scheduled 2026 Metra Holiday Train runs will go on sale Monday, November 16 at noon.
Tickets are $10 each and must be purchased in advance. Customers are subject to a five-ticket limit per purchase.
All sales are final and tickets are unexchangeable. No refunds can be issued.
Metra anticipates tickets to sell out fast, so you’ll want to be sure to hop online right at noon to get yours before they’re gone.
Those who don’t purchase tickets will still have the chance to enjoy a festive train ride, as the holiday cars will circulate in regular service across Metra’s lines throughout December.
Click here to grab your advance tickets.
