CTA Holiday Train, Bus returning for 2020, but without riders

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The CTA Holiday Train and Bus are coming back this year, but there will be a big change due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Customers will not be able to board the train or bus. Instead, people will be able to see the brightly decorated train and bus in neighborhoods across the city, with a socially-distanced Santa waving to everyone from his sleigh.

The CTA says it has run the Holiday Train since 1992, adding the Holiday Bus in 2014.

"Each year, customers of all ages look forward to the arrival of the CTA Holiday Train and Bus," said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. "Because our No. 1 priority is the health and safety of our customers and employees, we wanted to find a way to spread holiday cheer across the city, but do so responsibly. Though customers won't be able to get on board, we know that seeing the CTA Holiday Train and Bus in neighborhoods throughout the city will bring much-needed smiles, joy and hope for everyone."

The train will begin service on Friday, November 27. The full schedule is available at transitchicago.com/holiday