Edmontonians received an early holiday gift this week: a festive preview of the city's beloved LRT Holiday Train. The specially decorated train car, a seasonal tradition that brings cheer to commuters, was unveiled on December 18, 2025, offering a glimpse of the magic rolling onto the tracks.
A Moving Celebration of the Season
The transformation of a standard Light Rail Transit car into a mobile winter wonderland marks the unofficial start of the city's transit-based festivities. While full details of the 2025 design remain under wraps, the sneak peek confirms the train's return with its signature blend of lights, decorations, and holiday spirit. The initiative, a collaborative effort between the City of Edmonton and community partners, aims to spread joy to thousands of daily riders throughout the month.
This year's reveal, shared by CTV News Edmonton, continues a tradition that has become a highlight for families and commuters alike. The train operates on regular service lines, meaning anyone hopping on the LRT has a chance to experience the surprise of boarding the holiday-themed car.
More Than Just Decorations
The Holiday Train serves as a moving symbol of community and celebration during the often-dark winter months. It represents a creative and public-facing way to engage citizens with their municipal transit system, fostering a sense of shared experience and civic pride. For many, spotting the brightly lit train amidst the regular fleet is a cherished part of their holiday routine in the city.
The launch timing, just a week before Christmas, ensures the train is at the heart of the peak festive period. Its route across Edmonton's LRT network means communities from Clareview to Century Park and from NAIT to Health Sciences Junction have the opportunity to catch a ride.
A Bright Spot in the Winter Schedule
The introduction of the Holiday Train provides a cheerful counterpoint to other seasonal news, such as winter storm travel advisories. While Edmonton deals with the realities of December weather, this project focuses squarely on creating a positive and unifying urban experience. It underscores the city's commitment to not just moving people, but also to enhancing their daily journeys with moments of unexpected delight.
As 2025 draws to a close, Edmonton's LRT Holiday Train is ready to roll, promising to deliver its unique brand of holiday magic directly to the platforms and passengers of Canada's festival city.
