Operation North Pole Christmas train returns to Metra after five years

The Operation North Pole (ONP) Christmas train is back on the rails after a five-year pause, bringing holiday cheer to seriously and terminally ill children and their families. The event, in partnership with Metra, is set to take place on Saturday, December 20, along the Union Pacific Northwest Line, with communities invited to show their support.

Since its founding in 2009, ONP has delivered festive experiences for children affected by illness, combining a special train journey with visits to Santa at the North Pole. The train’s exterior has been decorated with a holiday theme sponsored by ONP since 2011, and this year features Nutcracker-themed characters. Metra employees have also adorned the interiors with lights, tinsel, and themed carriages, including Santa’s Workshop, the Grinch, and Candyland.

Ahead of the main event, the specially decorated train will operate in regular service on Metra’s Union Pacific lines, starting December 8, before participating in the ONP and Metra Holiday Train events on December 13 and 20. The train will run on the UP Northwest Line from December 8–14, the UP North Line December 15–21, and the UP West Line December 22–January 2.

The public is encouraged to view the train and cheer on families from locations north of Des Plaines Station due to the convoy of buses and escort vehicles accompanying the participants. On December 20, the train will depart Pingree Road Station, Crystal Lake, at 12:30 p.m., stopping at Cary, Fox River Grove, Barrington, Palatine, Arlington Park, Arlington Heights, Cumberland, and finally arriving at the “North Pole” at Des Plaines Station at 1:10 p.m.

Community involvement will be a highlight of the day. Barrington Station will host a charity event to support ONP, while Crystal Lake first responders and schoolchildren will greet passengers at Pingree Road Station with carols and treats. Upon arrival at the North Pole, families will be escorted by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and local firefighters and police to a winter wonderland at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, complete with music, games, food, presents, and festive activities.

Image: Metra