Metra will modify train schedules on several days in the coming weeks to account for the holiday season.
In addition, special $8 holiday passes will be available for unlimited travel Dec. 23 to 25 and Dec. 30 to Jan. 1, and up to three kids 11 and under will be able to ride free with each adult from Dec. 16 to Jan. 1.
On Dec. 21 and 22 and on Dec. 28 and 29, some lines will adjust schedules to add early afternoon departures from Metra’s downtown stations to accommodate workers and shoppers making an early getaway to start their long holiday weekends.
Some normal rush-hour trains will be cancelled on those days.
In addition, on Dec. 31, some lines will hold the last train of the evening for a later departure time to accommodate customers attending New Year’s Eve festivities downtown. The last trains will depart from 1:10 a.m. to 1:25 a.m., depending on the line. Alcohol is prohibited on all trains after 7 p.m. on Dec. 31.
Metra is also extending its $8 unlimited ride weekend pass over both three-day holiday weekends. Those who purchase the weekend pass on board or at a station for use from Dec. 23 to 25 or for use from Dec. 30 to Jan. 1 will be able to ride as often as they need to during each three-day period.
Customers who use the Ventra app to make their purchase will need to select the special “Holiday 3-Day Pass” or “New Year’s 3-Day Pass” instead of the weekend pass to receive this special deal on those weekends. The special mobile pass will remain active throughout the long holiday weekend.
The Sunday/holiday schedule will be in effect on Dec. 24 and 25 and Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
Customers are urged to check the revised schedules for each day by clicking here. The Ventra app also will display the correct revised schedule for each day.