All Aboard: Metrolink’s Holiday Express Returns to Southern California!
The holidays are rolling in — literally. Metrolink’s Holiday Express is back, bringing festive fun, music, treats, and a whole lot of cheer to stations across Southern California. Families can expect a mix of holiday magic both on the platform and onboard. It’s a fun seasonal outing that can easily become a tradition!
Each experience begins at the host station with a welcome celebration with holiday tunes, hands-on crafts, sweet treats, and plenty of merry energy. Once riders board, the train transforms into a winter wonderland with carolers, holiday characters, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
This year’s Holiday Express stops include L.A. Union Station, San Bernardino Depot, Irvine, Riverside-Downtown, and Simi Valley.
Ticket Information
Holiday Express tickets are special event tickets and are not valid for regular Metrolink service. Regular Metrolink tickets and passes also can’t be used on these trains.
- Price: $30 per rider
- Ages 2 and under: Free on an adult’s lap
- Purchase: Select your preferred station and date, and you’ll be redirected to complete your seat selection and transaction online.
All tickets must be purchased in advance.
2025 Holiday Express Schedule
L.A. Union Station
- Saturday, December 6 – 10am
- Saturday, December 6 – 2pm
San Bernardino Depot Station
- Sunday, December 7 – 10am
- Sunday, December 7 – 1pm
Irvine Station – SOLD OUT!
Saturday, December 13 – 9:30amSaturday, December 13 – 1:30pmSunday, December 14 – 9:30amSunday, December 14 – 1:30pm
Riverside-Downtown Station
- Saturday, December 20 – 10:30am
- Saturday, December 20 – 1:30pm
Simi Valley Station
- Sunday, December 21 – 9:45am
- Sunday, December 21 – 1:15pm
What Families Can Expect Onboard
Once inside, the Holiday Express turns into a festive ride filled with music, characters, and joyful surprises. Riders can look forward to:
- Live carolers and holiday performers
- Visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus
- Decorated train cars sparkling with holiday charm
- Interactive moments for kids
- Plenty of photo opportunities
Station Welcome Festivities
Arriving early pays off. Before boarding, families can enjoy holiday music, kids’ crafts, face painting, photo opportunities, and giveaways from local partners.
Toy Drive
Metrolink is also spreading holiday kindness through its annual Toy Drive. Riders are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to drop into the collection bin at their station. As a thank-you, families will receive a free Metrolink pass when donating at the event.
Tips for Families
- Arrive at least 60 minutes early to check in and enjoy the station festivities.
- Strollers aren’t permitted onboard, but stroller parking will be provided.
- ADA-accessible seating is available.
- Bring a small bag to take home holiday crafts and goodies.
- Families are welcome to bring snacks and drinks; food is not sold onboard.
Learn more about Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train at metrolinktrains.com. Looking for more train fun? Visit the our OutingsGuide for a list of fun train attractions in Southern California!
Categories: Blog
This post was written by Kidsguide
