Christmas comes to the Madrid metro and transforms line 3 into a magical route with carols, elves, free activities and a very special decoration. Until January 6, the route between El Casar and Moncloa becomes a festive experience, with special timetables and special visits.
The carriages have been decorated with large stickers inside and out, with Christmas motifs such as bows, balls or nutcrackers. In addition, special lighting has been added with red, green and blue lights. And on weekends and Christmas highlights, both Santa Claus and his elves and the Three Wise Men will pay a visit to passengers on the yellow metro line.
An inauguration to the rhythm of David Bisbal
The Christmas Train got underway on Tuesday 25 November with an inauguration by David Bisbal. At Sol station, the singer performed two Christmas carols with his musicians and then boarded the metro to reach Plaza de España station.
The event, which was also attended by the Minister of Presidency, Justice and Local Administration, Miguel Ángel García Martín, was a preview of what awaits in the coming days. There will be visits from the main protagonists of Christmas, lots of music and shows to celebrate the holidays.
When to see Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men
Santa Claus and his elves will be on board the Christmas Train every Friday and weekend until January 4, as well as on December 22, 23 and 24.
The Three Wise Men will be present through their pages, who will accompany passengers on Line 3 from December 26 to January 5.
They will not be on the train during the whole day, but during certain time slots which, according to Metro de Madrid, will be as follows:
- Fridays from November 28 to January 2: from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 to January 4: from 11:00 to 13:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00.
- December 8 , 22, 23, 24, 29, 30 and 31 and January 5: from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A gospel choir, shows and a Christmas sweater
Beyond the carriages, the metro’s programming includes free activities for young and old alike. Pupils from 32 schools in the region will be able to attend a show at El Casar station, as well as a ride with Christmas characters between El Casar and Almendrales.
At the Ópera station, the Museo de los Caños del Peral will host a nativity scene created by the Asociación de Belenista de Madrid, which will have its own Christmas concert. And gospel lovers will be able to enjoy a live choir on December 17, 18, 19 and 20 at Canal, Chamartín, Puerta del Sur and Móstoles Central stations.
Finally, Metro de Madrid has put on sale a new edition of its Christmas sweater, which has been available for purchase since November 17. It can be purchased through the website, at the official stores in Sol, Plaza de Castilla and Ópera or at the Chamartín and Pacífico exhibitions.