The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) kicked off the 2024 holiday season with its festive bus, "Holly," and an expanded schedule of appearances that brings joy to the community.
"Holly is no question the most popular thing SMTD does in our community," said SMTD Managing Director Steve Schoeffel. "We’re looking forward to getting Holly out more this year than ever before."
After a major overhaul last year, Holly now features over 11,000 lights, including programmable LEDs. The improvements replaced the original lights and netting that had been used since the bus first appeared a decade ago. Due to the lighting equipment inside, passengers are not allowed on the bus during its appearances.
“Holly is traditionally featured at the Holiday Lights Parade downtown and at several locations during the DSI Holiday Walks,” added Schoeffel. “This year, we’ve already added fifty percent more scheduled appearances, and we’re excited to give even more residents the opportunity to enjoy the tradition.”
The holiday bus has already made its rounds, with upcoming appearances including:
12/4: ALPLM and Downtown, 4:45 PM
12/5: Grant Middle School, 5:00 PM
12/6: Illinois Products Y-block, 4:30 PM
12/7: Jaycees Holiday Parade, 5:30 PM
12/11: ALPLM and Downtown, 4:45 PM
12/12: Springfield Chamber Event, 4:30 PM
12/13: Iles Park, 5:00 PM, Lindsay School, 7:00 PM
12/14: New Berlin Holiday Parade, 5:30 PM
12/17: Laketown School, 4:00 PM
12/18: ALPLM and Downtown, 4:45 PM
12/19: Enos School, 4:00 PM
12/20: Springfield Supportive Living, 5:00 PM
12/21: ALPLM and Downtown, 4:45 PM, Chatham Park Lights, 6:00 PM
“Our maintenance staff works really hard to get the bus ready every year, and I hope anyone who can stop by will thank them for their hard work to make this happen,” said Schoeffel.
Don't miss the chance to catch "Holly" this December as she spreads holiday cheer across Springfield!
