WRTA Kicks Off 2019 Holiday Bus with Kids, Santa

WRTA officially launched its 2019 Holiday Bus on Monday morning, November 25, when the bus pulled into the parking lot of the Newport branch of the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County.

On board was a special passenger: Santa Claus. Excited children, who are students at Alta Head Start, got on the bus for a visit with Santa, whose “throne” was the seat in the back row. Kids also enjoyed refreshments and activities courtesy of WRTA and the Library.

The festively decorated Holiday Bus is designed to bring cheer to children, adults and everyone who will ride it. It made its debut two years ago and was a tremendous hit with riders in 2017 and 2018. This year’s new and enhanced holiday-themed design is carried out both outside and inside of the bus, and holiday music adds to the fun atmosphere.

This year’s Holiday Bus is co-sponsored by WKBN-TV and First National Bank. Officials of both entities joined WRTA Executive Director Dean Harris and the Library’s Director Aimee Fifarek in presenting the bus to the media and children.

The Holiday Bus will travel every WRTA Fixed Route at least once from Friday, November 29 through Christmas Eve Day, and Santa will be on-board for all runs. (You can view the full bus schedule below.)

All rides on the WRTA Holiday Bus will be free.