RTA’s Historic Christmas Trolley

Dash away! Dash away! Dash away all—to see the Greater Dayton RTA’s historic Christmas trolley gracing local streets once more in this year’s Dayton Children’s Parade on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, as well for select special public events throughout the month of December. The 76-year-old trolley – a 1948 Marmon-Herrington TC-48 #559 – is only one of five operable trolleys of its kind in the world today. It is famous for its simulated fireplace, Santa seat, and festive holiday scenes gracing the exterior. It last ran on Dayton streets in 1988, after which it was transferred to San Franciso Municipal Railway in California. It made the 2,300-mile journey back to Dayton in 2021 after RTA CEO Bob Ruzinsky reacquired it for Daytonians to enjoy once again. After the parade, the public will be able to see this piece of nostalgia during several public events. During these events, the trolley will be on display and will offer free rides through downtown Dayton (this historic vehicle is not ADA accessible). Historic information about the trolley will also be presented by local trolley enthusiast Tom Morrow, and Santa Claus will be making an appearance at each event. All events will take place outside of Wright Stop Plaza at the corner of Main and Third streets. Event dates and times are as follows: Saturday, Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2 from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4-6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16 from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23 from 4-6 p.m. Visit www.iriderta.org for details