Festive train making 32 stops across Southern California in November and December

LOS ANGELES -Metrolink will begin its month-long Holiday Toy Express Tour with a preview night on Friday, Nov. 18 at Los Angeles Union Station.** The official kickoff is on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 5:00 p.m. in Anaheim, in conjunction with the launch of the Southern California Firefighters' Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Between Nov. 18 and Dec. 18, the 450-ton train will spread cheer across the Southern California region, making 32 stops over five weekends. Please click here to see the full schedule.

The festive train will be decorated with more than 50,000 lights and include a flat car that will be used as a stage for the musical show featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus. Cities hosting the train's stop have additional events before and/or after the train arrives.

"Metrolink's Holiday Toy Express has become a tradition that Southern Californians look forward to. We are truly honored to be a part of an activity that brings us together during the holidays and puts smiles on so many faces," said Richard Katz, Metrolink Board Chairman. "We are grateful to the cities that have supported the Holiday Toy Express. This is truly a united effort to spread cheer across the region."

Events at all stops, except Camp Pendleton, are open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their friends and family, as well as one or more unwrapped toys to donate to Southern California Firefighters' "Spark of Love Toy Drive".

NOTE TO MEDIA:

** Media is invited to attend the public preview and can ride the train from Union Station to Chatsworth where a show will be performed, and back to LAUS. This will be an opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Holiday Toy Express. Metrolink employee volunteers who will staff the Holiday Toy Express will also be onboard the train on public preview night. Please RSVP to [email protected] if you are interested in riding the train on preview night.