Holiday Bus

There's a new way to spread holiday cheer in Milwaukee County! MCTS is transforming one of its buses into the Milwaukee Cookie Transit System (MCTS), a festive, holiday-themed bus bringing a little extra magic to the streets this season.

Decked out in sweet holiday decorations and eye-catching lights, the MCTS Holiday Bus will travel throughout Milwaukee County, making special appearances at beloved community traditions and serving riders on regular routes along the way.

Whether you're catching it on your daily commute, spotting it around town or taking a festive ride with family and friends, we hope it brings a little extra joy to your holiday season!

The Holiday Bus will be in service through December 23, 2026.

 

Track the Holiday Bus!

Want to catch the Holiday Bus? Use the tracker below to see where it's traveling in real time and find it on the streets of Milwaukee County!

**Please note: The map currently displays an example of what the MCTS Holiday Bus Tracker will look like. The tracker will be updated to reflect the Holiday Bus's official route and real-time location beginning Saturday, November 21. Check back then to follow the Holiday Bus as it spreads holiday cheer throughout Milwaukee County!**

 

Find the Holiday Bus at an Upcoming Event!

The Holiday Bus will make appearances at special events throughout the season and travel on regular MCTS routes between appearances. Check out the list of events below to find it near you!

Holiday Bus Unveiling: Uptown 56 Park

Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 4:30 – 6 p.m.

56th and North Avenue

Join MCTS for the special celebration and get a first look at this year's festive bus!

Getting there: MCTS Route 21

113th Annual City of Milwaukee Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, November 20, 2026 | 5 – 7 p.m.

The Plaza at Deer District (Cheer District)

This annual tradition features Santa Claus, local performers, school drumlines and holiday treats.

Getting there: MCTS Routes 19, 31, 33, 34 and 80

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin's 29th Annual Stuff the Bus

Saturday, November 21, 2026 | Noon – 3 p.m.

Pick 'n Save
8770 S. Howell Ave., Oak Creek

Help fight hunger in our community! Bring non-perishable food items from home or purchase a $5 Sack Hunger Bag at checkout. Donations will help fill an MCTS bus parked outside the store.

Getting there: MCTS Route 82

West Allis Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 4:45 – 6 p.m.

Downtown West Allis

Celebrate the season with marching bands, live performers, creative floats, and Santa Claus!

Getting there: MCTS Route 18 (but check in advance for possible detours)

Cocoa With the Clauses

Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cathedral Square Park, Milwaukee

Santa and Mrs. Claus return for this annual holiday tradition! Kids can share their wish lists while families enjoy cocoa and capture a keepsake photo.

Getting there: MCTS Routes 30 and 33

 

Take a Festive Ride!

The Holiday Bus will also travel on regular MCTS routes throughout Milwaukee County between special event appearances. Keep an eye out for Santa and his elves, snap a photo or simply enjoy a little extra holiday cheer on your next trip!

A few things to know:

  • Regular MCTS fares are required to ride the Holiday Bus.
  • Opportunities to take photos with Santa and the elves will be available at select appearances.
  • All Holiday Bus service and special event appearances are weather-permitting due to the exterior decorations.
  • The Holiday Bus will conclude service on December 23, 2026.

 

A Sweet New Holiday Tradition

The MCTS Holiday Bus is made possible through a sponsorship from Lamar Transit Advertising.

MCTS hopes this festive bus becomes a family tradition, with a new theme each year. From all of us at MCTS, Happy Holidays!