The Point: Popular holiday train experience leaves from downtown Riverside for the first time

Santa Claus is coming to… Downtown Riverside! Step into a winter wonderland this holiday season with the return of Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train. This magical train experience will make its way to the Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station on Saturday, December 7th. These special trains require reservations, and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Holiday Express Train is a 75-minute nonstop round-trip experience that begins and ends at the downtown Riverside station. To purchase tickets, visit Metrolink’s website 

The Metrolink Holiday Express Train has helped deliver joy and a unique train riding experience to families across southern California. This year, expect more holiday cheer as these special trains transform into a festive wonderland, featuring dazzling decorations, joyful carolers, and unforgettable appearances by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the helpful elves.

1124 Point Holiday Train 02
1124 Point Holiday Train 01

Before you board the train on December 7, join RCTC, Metrolink, and various local organizations and businesses for festivities at the Riverside-Downtown station parking lot featuring pop-up booths, fun activities, train ticket giveaways, and holiday surprises. New and unwrapped toy donations will also be accepted during the event to help the Miracles and Dreams Foundation provide to those in need this holiday season. Two Holiday Express Trains will depart from Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station on Saturday, December 7. The first train departs at 10:30 a.m. and the second train at 1:30 p.m. Please see below for a full schedule of activities:

Train #1  |  December 7, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.

  • 9:00 a.m. – Pre-Event Festivities  
  • 9:45 a.m. – Train Boarding  
  • 10:30 a.m. – Train Departure  
  • 11:57 a.m. – Train Returns

Train #2  |  December 7, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.

  • 12:00 p.m. – Pre-Event Festivities  
  • 12:45 p.m. – Train Boarding  
  • 1:30 p.m. – Train Departure  
  • 2:57 p.m. – Train Returns  

For more information about Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train events, including ticketing, pre-event festivities and boarding information, please visit: metrolinktrains.com/holidaytrain