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.

Metrolink is rolling out service changes aimed at making it easier for passengers to travel across the six-county service area. Beginning Monday, October 21, Metrolink will introduce 32 additional weekday trains across the Metrolink system, increasing service by nearly 23% and offering more midday options for passengers.

Riverside County will see significant changes to its Inland Empire Orange-County Line (IEOC), 91/Perris Valley Line (91/PVL), and Riverside Lines. The IEOC Line between Riverside and Orange counties will welcome four new weekday trains. The 91/PVL changes include two additional weekday trains, and all outbound trains will now terminate at the Perris-South Station. The new schedule also introduces easy to follow departure times, with trains leaving at set intervals after the hour, simplifying trip planning. Additionally, the Riverside Line will have midday train.

Metrolink designed the new schedule to improve service across the entire system with increased transfer opportunities. The new schedule will result in changes for some existing trips, so passengers are encouraged to check out the new schedule at: metrolinktrains.com/scheduleupdate 

Mark your calendar for even more fun. On July 16-17,^, the San Clemente Ocean Festival, also known as the “Greatest Show on Surf,” will be celebrating its 45^th year. Enjoy concerts, sand sculpting, boat races, a 5K beach run, exhibits, and an ocean art show. On August 14, the San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival will offer live entertainment, contests, food, and family-friendly activities. A 15-minute walk from the pier, the music festival will be held in the heart of San Clemente.

South of the San Clemente Pier Station is the Oceanside Station at the end of the Inland Empire/Orange County Line. The beach and pier are about a 10-minute walk from the Oceanside Station. Pack light so you can enjoy time on the sand as well as in the shops and restaurants near the pier.

Planning your trip is easy. Use this How to Ride guide for tips about schedules, buying tickets, and boarding the train. Metrolink offers multiple types of tickets for families or solo riders, including:

• $10 Weekends – This Weekend Day Pass lets you travel throughout the Metrolink system on Saturdays or Sundays. Buy tickets with Metrolink’s mobile app or use the ticket machines and select “Weekend Day Pass” on the home screen.
• Kids Ride Free on Weekends – This promotion allows up to three children (17 years and younger) to ride free with a $10 paying adult. Children do not require a ticket and can board with a parent/guardian.
• Buy your tickets and enjoy the summer! Tag us in your photos @theRCTC on Facebook and Instagram using #RCTCBeachdays!